If you are a FileMaker developer checking out Servoy, you probably immediately see the benefits of:
M-^U zero client install, usable over a WAN
M-^U scalability
M-^U connecting to and combining robust data sources
M-^U object oriented, event driven interface
M-^U time saving interface objects like the tab panel, custom controller and display form in dialogue
M-^U standard scripting language
M-^U easy server management
M-^U versioning control
M-^U centralized security
M-^U etc…
It has features similar to FileMaker:
M-^U forms development methodology
M-^U use of relations, value lists, portals, buttons, and other familiar interface elements
M-^U methods (scripts) attach to a button onAction event (and a bunch of other object events)
M-^U users interact with a Servoy application like a FileMaker application (find and print mode, etc)
You are probably challenged by:
M-^U setting up named connections to data sources, especially to an external database
M-^U getting used to the new terminology
M-^U becoming familiar with all the properties and events available with each object
M-^U learning how to script (Oddly enough, the challenge here is not learning JavaScript because of the sample code and correct syntax available for each function but learning where everything is at and what each function does.)
At the outset, you want to know if Servoy does what it says it does. If you read any amount of posts in this forum and get the demo going you quickly see that it is a “for real” product.
The next step is mulling whether or not Servoy has advantages to you that make it worth learning. Some people switch just so they don’t ever have to create and manage 25 different layouts to implement a double tab panel again in their life. Or install the client software and five plugins on 100 different computers. Or being able to add a field without dumping everyone off the server (much less being able to roll back to the previous version if something goes wrong with your new version). The list goes on.
So consider your time it takes for these kinds of tasks currently. Compare that to what it will take for you to learn a new development environment. The decision will either be clear or it won’t
After that, it’s just a matter of digging in and tackling the learning curve like anything else. Without a doubt, if you need Servoy’s features – it is SO worth it.
One word of warning: if you are a FileMaker developer who knows all the tricks in your world, the hardest part for you will be unlearning some of your habits. The good news is that if you have the capacity to learn all the FileMaker work-a-rounds then learning Servoy should be WELL within your capabilities. ![Smile :)]()