Why
Laszlo belongs to a class of applications where the UI is developed declaratively using XML. The declarative XML is interpreted by some underlying technology to render and interact with the user. The interpretation can be done by any of the underlying and available technologies such as Java/Awt/Applet, Java/Swing/Applet, Flash, SVG Player, etc. Laszlo uses Flash 5 and up. The wide availability of Flash makes the platform very available on most browsers.
The products that seem to do this are:
Flex from Macro Media (About $12,000 license) XUL from Mozilla (Limited to Mozilla at this time) Various applets that have a version of XUL XAML in Longhorn (not here for prime time yet)
Of all these Laszlo seem to have gotten a good report card. This class of applications will only increase in prominence. Applying these tools to solve real world problems would be critical to architects and developers. At this time Laszlo seem to be a good candidate to evaluate this technology and possible toolsets that can be developed for value added purposes.
Possible issues
Implementing solutions in production currently costs a couple of grand. There is a non-commercial solution available for limited use in addition to displaying the powered by banner. This is probably an option for non-profits and also consulting companies that wants to evangelize the platform. It also follows a double-server model for delivering content. This needs to be further investigated for speed for certain low bandwidth networks.
Good things
Developer edition free Non-commercial license available Good feed back on ease of use Flash 5
Taking it for a spin: An advanced photo album
This project will work as a playground for the proving the technology. Create a photo album based on an XML document. The structure of this document can be as follows:
title artist intro image (one or more) name url-thumbnail url-large-image description summary
Given this document as XML the album should provide an innovative rectangular display fit for a web page.
A larger scope project
Develop a file manager for the content management website of AKC. This control panel will allow authors to seemlessly author and manage their nested hierarchy of folders, files, and master pages. This should demonstrate the larger capabilities of Laszlo.
Initial work assignment
Download Install Configure Locate online docs Locate online forums Create the photo app Provide a detailed paper on this assignment Also provide a minimal requirements for developing and testing
Deliverables
- outlining the architecture of Laszlo
- installing and writing a hello world
- State of XAML/XUL with Laszlo backdrop
- Why is laszlo relevant
- Laszlo for complex development: A content management file manager
- How to apply laszlo for corporate development
- Limitations of laszlo