In this chapter, we look at the differentiating factors of frameworks, and give you a set of techniques for choosing frameworks. We also look at how you can determine whether a particular framework fits your needs. We concentrate on the practical job of choosing the right pieces to get the job done, and give you the information you need to choose the right tool.

OVERVIEW

Let us say that you are convinced that the benefits of frameworks are real, and that it would make good business sense for you and your organization to adopt an appropriate framework. Now what? Where do you go to find frameworks, and how do you go about evaluating them? When you first start evaluating frameworks, there are some high-level observations you can make right away. Let us examine them first and then get into more details.

Identification

There is sometimes a fine line between a component library and an application framework. Some products are oriented more toward providing a set of application elements, rather than providing the backbone to build an entire application. Often, component libraries are more focused, concentrating on a particular area of the application, such as file access, visual presentation, or middle-ware elements. In general, a component library is defined as a collection of fully-developed components, and may include capabilities for generating your own components.