Hey everyone,
I’m working on a Java server app that uses complex POJO messages. We usually test it with a basic console client, but that’s not cutting it anymore. We need a better way to test server functionality, especially for a new app that tracks state across messages.
Our main client is a Flex app, but it’s too slow for quick testing. We want to stick with Java because of our custom object types. Manually coding Swing UIs is a pain, so I’m looking for faster ways to build GUIs for our devs.
I’ve checked out Eclipse RCP, but I’m worried it might be overkill. Has anyone used tools like Spring RichClient or Groovy Swing Builder for quick prototyping? What’s your go-to for making Java GUIs without a big learning curve?
Any tips or experiences would be super helpful. Thanks!
maybe check out javaFX or try the netbeans gui builder. ive used it for quick tests in the past and it works pretty well for fast prototyping in java. give it a try!
Consider exploring JGoodies Forms or MigLayout for rapid GUI development in Java. These libraries offer a more streamlined approach to creating layouts compared to traditional Swing, reducing the amount of boilerplate code needed. JGoodies Forms, in particular, provides a constraint-based system that’s intuitive for arranging components.
For even quicker prototyping, you might want to look into Jython with Swing. This combination allows you to leverage Python’s concise syntax while still working with Java’s Swing components, potentially speeding up your GUI creation process significantly.
Remember, the key is to find a balance between development speed and maintainability for your testing tools. Whichever approach you choose, ensure it integrates well with your existing Java ecosystem and custom object types.
have u thought about using javaFX Scene Builder? It’s pretty user-friendly and lets you drag-and-drop UI elements. could be a good fit for quick testing without a steep learning curve. what kind of specific UI elements do you need for your tests?