Pro Silverlight 5 in VB

Better Data Forms

In the previous chapter, you learned how to use data binding to build basic data forms. These forms—essentially, ordinary pages made up of text boxes and other bound controls—allow users to enter, edit, and review data. Best of all, they require relatively little code.

But the reality isn't as perfect as it seems. To build a data form, you need a fair bit of handwritten XAML markup, which must include hard-coded details such as caption text, prompts, and error messages. Managing all these details can be a significant headache, especially if the data model changes frequently. Change the database, and you'll be forced to alter your data classes and your user interface—and Visual Studio's compile-time error checking can't catch ...