Client Tracking Software

language for small software?

I am writing a software for the small hair salon that does some basic daily operations: client tracking, appointment setting, management report, and so on. Which languages (.NET, C++, Java) do you think is suitable for my needs? How do I store the client info? do I need to integrate with database like access? Note: this software will be running on XP Thanks

Public Comments

1. Go for .Net. It'll give your customer a user friendly environment, and will be easy for you to program.
2. Use .NET (C#) and you will save yourself a lot of stress and hassle down the road. Thing big. The scope may be small now, but you don't want to have to reinvent the wheel as needs come up in the future. Develop this as a web application so that it will not only be accessible from anywhere, but also make it easier to allow customer interactions (scheduling appts, newsletters, etc.) Store the data in MS-SQL if you can. If not, Sql Server 2005 Express is free and powerful. Here are a few links to get you started: http://www.asp.net (free tips and downloadable starter kits) http://msdn.microsoft.com/vstudio/express/sql/ More info on SqlExpress Good luck! http://www.experts-exchange is always helpful as well.
3. I like C#. Design using .net and you can have a access DB backend which will keep cost down
4. Since the application will be running on a windows system I think it will be best to write it in .net. It is easy to write windows based application in .net then in C++ or Java. Also you will want to store the client info in a database like SQL Server 2000 or Access. Since this is a very small application I think it will be financially less expensive to use Access then SQL Server.
5. I sorta agree with the first answer'er in that I'd recommend going with one of the .NET languages first, Java 2nd, and C++ third. Primarily because of the additional support for creating apps (and not related to the relative merits of the base language, since I personally prefer C++). Where I don't agree with the first poster is that it will somehow automatically make apps that are easy for your users to use. Only YOU can do that. You need to be sure to understand what the user is doing and what they are trying to accomplish. The two most important factors in creating a "successful" software package are 1) requirements (e.g. understanding what the user needs) and 2) usuability (and allowing them to do it in an efficient manner). Interfacing with the db will take care of a lot of issues for you and I'd highly recommend it. Another option is to serialize your objects directly out to xml files, but going with the db is generally the preferred way. Download the free version VS2005 from M$ and have at it.
6. I would vote for "none of the above". Instead, I'd go down to Frys (or where ever you normally buy software) and see if I could find a professional package to handle a small service/ retail outlet. There are a zillion stores in the world, and it seems odd that it would be efficient/economical/practical to build custom software for this particular hair salon.