Introduction
SRP FrameWorks is designed to make application development easier and more powerful. While this does not mean normal development practices have to be changed, SRP FrameWorks works best when a few simple techniques are followed. Below is a summary of the SRP FrameWorks core development architecture. Reading all of the associated section detail pages will provide the developer with the necessary technical knowledge to create scalable applications within the SRP FrameWorks environment.
However, for those who prefer to jump right in and learn in a hands-on way, we recommend that you open up the Adding a Form to SRP FrameWorks page and go through the step-by-step exercise.
Commuter Modules
All event handling related to a particular OpenInsight form should be managed through a single associated stored procedure (aka Commuter Module). While this is not a new concept, SRP FrameWorks takes full advantage of their benefits. Through its unique use of Promoted Events, both Script Event and QuickEvent handlers are completely unnecessary. One significant advantage of this approach is that all event programming can be done from within the developer's preferred code editor. Additionally, OpenInsight forms are allowed to remain running while events are added or modified. This provides for more efficient testing and the avoidance of having to switch back to the Form Designer to manage event handlers.
Promoted Events
Normally, Promoted Events are intended to enable system wide functionality within OpenInsight applications. SRP FrameWorks blends the power of Promoted Events with the convenience of Commuter Modules to offer maximum flexibility in event handling flow and control. Since the SRP FrameWorks Promoted Event handlers have already been created, it is not necessary to learn how they work. However, developers who wish to have a deeper understanding of this technology (which can be used to gain even more functionality out of SRP FrameWorks) are encouraged to read SRP's Promoted Events white paper.
FrameWorks Managers
As mentioned in the Introduction SRP FrameWorks page, FrameWorks Managers are a suite of utilities designed to aid the developer in performing common tasks. Most of the FrameWorks Managers are optional utilities that the developer can use as needed or desired. The Frame Manager and Security Manager, however, are essential for getting OpenInsight forms to be visible and accessible to end users.
SRP ActiveX Controls
A significant feature and benefit of SRP FrameWorks are the SRP ActiveX controls which are included. These have been designed to to enable OpenInsight applications (especially those designed with SRP FrameWorks) with enhanced visual and functional capabilities. Using them in your own application is not a necessity, but most of the provided utilities and application forms are already using them (especially FW_MAIN.) Therefore, it is recommended that all SRP FrameWorks developers become familiar with these controls. Developers who are new to programming with ActiveX controls are encouraged to study SRP's white paper on Using OLE in OpenInsight.
