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Visual Configuration for Solution Developers

description

The current version (V1.x) of the solution installer is driven by a simple XML configuration file that developers must create from the template provided. The new solution installer should also be driven by an XML configuration file. But it will need to have a more complex structure given the many new features. Consequently, it should be considered to include a "visual configuration mode" for the solution installer. A mode where it is possible to visually configure properties of each step in the installation wizard. This approach would save users for having to become familiar with a complex XML file and configuration of the installer will also become less prone to errors.
 
I see two ways to implement this feature:
 
  1. Add a configuration mode to the application, e.g. setup.exe -configure
  2. Create a Visual Studio plug-in.
     
    I am not sure which approach is best. Please give me your thoughts on this!

comments

mdikov wrote Apr 11, 2010 at 6:34 AM

To be honest I don't find this useful in our environment at all. XML config file is fairly common.

kliemohn wrote Apr 29, 2010 at 2:35 AM

I agree. Developers are used to XML. I would argue that this applies to solution developers as well.

Eugene_Borisov wrote Jun 8, 2010 at 7:25 AM

I'd suggest a third option: to make an XML Schema file with proper descriptions in it for enabling Intellisense in VS when editing the config.

ravensorb wrote Oct 21, 2010 at 7:24 PM

for new users of the tool either 1 or 2 would be extremely helpful

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