Expert One-on-One™ C# Design and Development

Chapter 9. Scripting

Many developers turn up their noses at scripts because they consider them a poor alternative to full applications. In the common developer view, a script is simply a tool provided to users and administrators who lack the skills required to create full-fledged applications. Unfortunately, this view is incorrect and counterproductive. Scripting, like any other tool, has its uses and you should be sure to add scripting to your developer toolbox. This chapter reviews a number of scripting options and considers how they can help you create better applications. You may find that using these suggestions really does improve productivity, make development easier, and enhance your relationship with the application user.

One of the essentials you should consider is adding scripting support to your application when appropriate. Obviously, you won't add scripting support to a simple text processor — at least, not unless the user truly needs the functionality. However, many higher-end applications can benefit from script-processing functionality. In many cases, you'll find that the scripting functionality you add also helps you, because scripting functionality usually makes it easy to add automation features to an application, rather than having to rewrite portions of the application to meet user needs.

Windows PowerShell also provides a solution for some development needs today. It's important to remember that this environment provides complete access to the .NET Framework, ...