Here are some points to keep in mind before you start
your form development process:
Try to adopt
the point of view of the end user. You may view your application as
a series of functions, but the end user sees the application as
the interface.
Consider developing
a template for your forms. A template ensures that all of your forms
look alike, and makes it easier for end users to navigate through
your application. For example, if many of your forms have a Next
button, putting it in the same place for every form ensures that
end users become familiar with the application more quickly.
Give your application
the same look and feel as other applications or webpages at your
site. Once again, this helps end users learn your application more
easily and gives your application more credibility.
Determine the
flow of all of the forms in your application and implement a driver procedure.
Determine which forms you have, and which forms call each other.
Then implement the driver procedure discussed in Using a Driver Procedure. Using
the driver procedure reduces the likelihood of seeing one of the
most common WebFOCUS Maintain application errors, the Stack Overflow
error.
If any of your
forms are reusable, place them in their own separate procedures
and use the CALL command to execute them. For example, perhaps you
have a Message Form for help messages, or a Browse Form for data
browsing, or a Credit Card Form for secured credit card entry.