Head First Programming

Chapter 8. Guis and Data: Data entry widgets

GUIs don’t just process events. They also handle data.

Almost all GUI applications need to read user data, and choosing the right widgets can change your interface from data entry hell to user heaven. Widgets can accept plain text, or just present a menu of options. There are lots of different widgets out there, which means there are lots of choices, too. And, of course, making the right choice can make all the difference. It’s time to take your GUI program to the next level.

Head-Ex needs a new delivery system

Head-Ex Deliveries is a small delivery company that’s looking to expand. They know that delivery companies rely on their computer systems, so they want to have a whole new system to book deliveries around the country.

The system needs to be simple to use, so they want to use a graphical user interface (GUI). They want to give you the job of creating the system and even have a sweetener to make it worth your while.

They’ve already designed the interface

Head-Ex has been thinking about expanding their business for a while and they already have a design for the interface to the new delivery system. This is what it needs to look like:

So how will ...