Best way to structure UI?

[Ronald S. Cook]

We're about to design a Windows app. Since it will have lots of modules,
we're thinking about a listbar (like Outlook) on the left with menu bar
across the top, and status bar at the bottom. Each module would take up the
space that's remaining.

So, it looks like we're wanting some sort of master form where the module
forms show up inside it. Should we have user controls for each of the
modules? I was hoping there would be a better way to restructure the app.

Thanks for any help,
Ron

P.S. We have the Infragistics suite if you think that offers any
options -thx

 

[Cor Ligthert [MVP]]

Ronald,

In my idea is it really not the best way to structure your UI based on all
kind of thirth part components.

However if there is no other option than you have to do it, but I will never
call that a Best Way.

Be aware that there are on MSDN as well a lot of free powerpacks.
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/vbasic/aa701257.aspx

Cor

 

[Ronald S. Cook]

I didn't say we had to use the 3rd party controls. Given our overall desire
for some controls that exist no matter which module is open, do you envision
some sort of master/shell form? If so, should the modules be user controls
or something else?

Thanks.

 

[Cor Ligthert [MVP]]

Ronald,

If you want to use it more than one time I surely like to advice to go in
the user control route.

Cor

 

[Simon Verona]

I've done similar by having a panel or groupbox and then dynamically loading
and unloading forms into the panel/group box as a "control". To do this you
need to use code such as :

dim frm as new myForm
frm.topmost=false
mypanel.controls.add(frm)
frm.show

I actually store all this code in my form (which are all inherited from a
base form). Which also removes the controlbox, sets the text property to
nothing and sets the form to dockfill.

This seems to work nicely..

HTH
Simon