Dynamic Progress 4GL Launcher

In a complex IT environment with multiple locations and varying configurations, launching Progress 4GL applications presented challenges due to dependency mismatches and manual configuration requirements. To address these issues, I developed a custom WPF Line of Business application that automates dependency checks, resolves deficiencies, and dynamically determines the correct 4GL application to launch based on the system’s location.

This project highlights my ability to design and implement tailored solutions that streamline operations, reduce errors, and improve user experience.

Objective

The goal of this project was to create a robust and user-friendly launcher for Progress 4GL applications that would:

  • Automate dependency checks and corrections.
  • Dynamically determine the correct application to launch based on the system’s location.
  • Provide a seamless and reliable experience for end-users.

Key Contributions

  • Custom WPF Development: Designed and implemented a WPF application with an intuitive interface and robust backend logic.
  • Automation Expertise: Automated dependency checks and remediation to ensure the system was always ready to launch the required application.
  • Dynamic Configuration: Integrated logic to dynamically determine the correct 4GL application based on the system’s location.

Problem Statement

Launching Progress 4GL applications across multiple locations was fraught with challenges:

  • Dependency Issues: Systems often lacked required dependencies or had mismatched versions, leading to application failures.
  • Manual Configuration: Technicians had to manually configure systems for each location, increasing the risk of errors and delays.
  • Inconsistent User Experience: The lack of a standardized launcher resulted in frustration and inefficiencies for end-users.

Solution

To address these challenges, I developed a custom WPF application with the following features:

  1. Automated Dependency Checks:

    • The launcher scans the system for required dependencies, such as specific DLLs, runtime libraries, and configuration files.
    • Any missing or outdated components are automatically downloaded and installed, ensuring the system is always ready.

  2. Dynamic Location Detection:

    • The application dynamically determines the system’s location using network identifiers or other system properties.
    • Based on the location, the launcher selects and configures the appropriate Progress 4GL application.

  3. Seamless User Interface:

    • The WPF interface provides clear feedback to users, including progress indicators for dependency checks and error messages for unresolved issues.
    • A single-click launch button simplifies the process for end-users.

Implementation Process

The project followed a structured development approach:

  • Requirement Analysis: Collaborated with stakeholders to identify pain points and define feature requirements.
  • Design and Development: Built the WPF application using C# and .NET, incorporating MVVM architecture for maintainability.
  • Testing and Validation: Conducted extensive testing across multiple locations to ensure reliability and performance.
  • Deployment and Training: Deployed the launcher organization-wide and provided training to end-users and technicians.

Results

The custom WPF launcher delivered significant improvements:

  • Reduced Errors: Automated dependency checks and dynamic configuration eliminated common issues, reducing support requests by 40%.
  • Increased Efficiency: The streamlined process reduced setup and launch times by 50%, enabling faster operations.
  • Enhanced User Experience: The intuitive interface and reliable functionality improved user satisfaction and productivity.

Reflection

This project demonstrated the value of automation and dynamic configuration in addressing complex operational challenges. By leveraging WPF and .NET technologies, I was able to deliver a solution that not only resolved immediate issues but also provided a scalable foundation for future enhancements. This experience reinforced my ability to design and implement innovative tools that drive efficiency and reliability in IT operations.