I've been a Unix-based web programmer for years (Perl and PHP). I'm also competent with C and C++ (and bash and that sort of sysadmin sort of stuff) in terms of the language itself. I've never had a problem learning a new language (I mucked around with Java a few years ago and whilst I could write it I just didn't like it as a language).
What I don't have any experience with is the vast array of frameworks that exist for writing graphical Windows applications.
I have a few ideas for Windows-based applications that I want to work through. I could do this is Perl/TCL/TK but I want something more "native" for a variety of reasons.
Through my current company I have access to Microsoft tools (and the licences to use them for "development") so I've decided to teach myself something new.
So, I've got Visual Studio 2008 installed. I fired it up, cliked "New Project" and then got absolutely confused by the variety of types of new project I could start.
Can someone please help me understand not only the fundemental differences but also any advice on what sort of things each type lends itself to?
Assuming I'm going down the C++ route (I know the language hence not choosing C# - unless this is actually more advisable...) I could use:
- Windows Forms
- MFC Application
- Win32
I also know that away from Microsoft I could use wxWidgets. wxWidgets does appeal to me (cross platform, etc) but how does this compare to the various Microsoft options above? I also know Qt exists.
Many thanks,
Jeff G.