Q&A databases (as well as applications based on other software) can be converted to a true relational database. Java, a popular programming language, is used to convert the application forms and program logic. We have extensive experience converting Q&A and can create a Java-based application that looks and acts almost identical to a Q&A database. That includes Q&A's easy-to-use retrieve specs as well as import and export specs.

We have created a demo that illustrates what a converted application might look like and it makes evident how closely we can mimic the look and feel of a Q&A Windows database.

The demo is of an extremely simple order entry application. It was based on a demo for DTFWIN, our program which enhances the capabilities of Q&A Windows. In its demo, DTFWIN provided a customized main menu and other features, such as pop up listboxes. These functions are now provided by Java programming. There were three databases, ORDER, CUSTOMER, and STOCK; the programming in those databases is now in Java, and the data is stored in a relational database.

Please take a few moments to view screen images of the Java Demo. (These images do not reflect changes in February 2008 that provide a color-coded table view; when quantity on hand in stock goes below a threshold of 100 the row turns orange, if it goes to zero the row turns red.)

Why would you want to convert to something other than Q&A (or Sesame) when it is so easy to use? The basic answer is that it is an end user database, designed for people who run their business by day and program Q&A by night. Many of our clients were the original developers of the Q&A databases currently in use. However, their businesses have been so successful that they have outgrown the capabilities of Q&A. Now when the owner/developers need more features to support a more complicated business, they no longer have the time to do further development, let alone learn something entirely new.

As professional software developers, we at Software Services and Products can convert your existing application to a true relational database and reprogram it in Java. With a true relational database, you have "scalability," which means that the amount of data you have can grow virtually without limits because, if needed, you can choose another database to stand behind your application, a database with greater capabilities.

To prove that you can switch databases, the demo actually comes with two databases: "Derby" (from IBM) and "JDataStore" (from Borland). When the demo starts, you can choose which one you want to use. Derby is free and is appropriate for small offices. JDataStore only costs $600 for a site license yet it can support many users while being virtually effortless to manage.

Both of these databases are "embedded." The good thing about embedded databases is that you don't have to do anything to set them up, which is great for a demo. The bad thing is that they only permit one user to access the data. One user is ok for a demo or a single user office. However, typically you would want a "client/server" installation that would support many simultaneous users. Both Derby and JDataStore can also run in client/server mode.

With Java, you can easily put your data on the Internet. Customers can see the status of an order. Agents can update the status of a job.

Programming it in Java means we are not constrained by the limitations of an end user database. We can deliver virtually any functionality you want. Data in multiple databases can easily be updated on the spot, with no need to wait for later batch posting processes run by hideously large DOS macros.

In addition to viewing the screen images, you can actually run the demo. You will need to have Java installed on your computer; many if not most computers already have Java installed. Java was developed by Sun and can be installed at no charge. Download the demo and try it. If you don't have Java on your computer, send us an e-mail and we'll provide download instructions.

The demo will automatically install into C:\JavaDemo and after installation it will automatically run.

Download, install, and run the demo (version 2/12/2008)