Netbeans RCP learning curve

[Jeremy Anderson]

Is there a steep learning curve with doing Netbeans RCP applications? I've looked at Eclipse RCP in the past and it seemed like there was a steep learning curve with trying to get even a simple application up and running.

[Adam Myatt]

Jeremy, it is actually not too bad. Start here : http://www.netbeans.org/kb/trails/platform.html

Follow a few tutorials and you'll be surprised how quick you can do some of the stuff. Obviously some of the more advanced stuff has a learning curve, but there exists several books, numerous blogs, and lots of documentation.

I particularly like the fact that when developing a NetBeans plugin or RCP app, you can use great tools like the Matisse GUI builder to design and quickly lay out GUI components for your app. Also Swing based, which is a plus in my mind.

[Jeremy Anderson]

Originally posted by Adam Myatt:

I particularly like the fact that when developing a NetBeans plugin or RCP app, you can use great tools like the Matisse GUI builder to design and quickly lay out GUI components for your app. Also Swing based, which is a plus in my mind.

If I'd have heard you say that a couple of years ago, I would have fallen out of my chair laughing. I have to admit though, Swing has come a long way. Do you know if it's possible to use Groovy to develop with the RCP? I would imagine so since it is after all just Java. I'm a huge fan of the builder syntax (http://groovy.codehaus.org/Swing+Builder) especially when it comes to developing Swing apps. I tend to not use WYSIWYG design tools when developing apps whether they're GUI or web apps.