Virtually all the applications I’ve done in recent years are operating in a client-server environment. I use a modular, n-tier approach to developing a solution. In the case of a web site each page is comprised of modules. Each module may have (as appropriate) its own set of files which are assembled together from the framework of the HTML file (or ASPX, DHTML, XHTML). Whenever possible I develop the site to utilize the simpler technology to accomplish a task, for example I prefer to use the operations of cascade style sheet properties to create animations and keep the JavaScript to a minimum. I also focus on keeping the amount of data exchanged between the client and the server to a minimum. Many of the modules that interact with a database use AJAX techniques to perform a partial page update. This approach keeps the site scalable even for a heavily trafficked site.
Over the years I’ve developed a balance between tight concise hand coding and the use of tools, to speed the development process along. Merged into this is additional code and techniques to build in security features. For example I like using stored procedures when interacting with a SQL database, These coupled with the access control mechanisms of SQL and the server builds a tight security layer into the application. I also build in additional tools to track the programs operation both during the development stage and frequently for the first several months of its operation. This aids in finding programming issues before they become a problem or aid in improving the operation of the application.
Although familiar with many programming languages, the most recent developments has been using Microsoft's VB.net, ASP.net, ADO.net, T-SQL (on Microsoft SQL server), DHTML, Cascade Style Sheets and JavaScript. We've also been using Windows Media Server tools for an internal web project.
For Web site development a combination of Visual Studio and Microsoft Web Expressions development tools are used. Once the initial framework of the application is created the solution is optimised using hand coding techniques. Creating dynamic web pages without using Flash, Active-X or other external browser plug-ins has been our passion for sometime now.
Adobe PhotoShop, Adobe ImageReady, Microsoft Web Designs, and a few specilised animation tools are used to process images and create or modify the graphics used to "decorate" a web site or application.
Frog Haven Enterprises focuses on developing custom software solutions for internet, intranet, and Microsoft Office applications using Microsoft's servers, applications and tools. Development can take place on-site at the customer's facilities or inhouse here at Frog Haven's office in Newport Oregon, Portland Oregon, or San Jose California.
Additional technical resoureces are available to us through our membership in the Microsoft Software Development Network and our membership in the Microsoft ISV Preferred Partner program.
This page is relatively simple. In addition to the standard 3 web modules the main body of the page uses the collapsible blocks to hide and display information. The operation of collapsing and making visible the text blocks is handled using style sheet options and about 3 lines of JavaScript.
Browser pages tend to be very block looking. I’ve added curves using special images to soften the overall look on this (and most of the other) pages.