[opinion] application that uses a config-file 3

[Overdoos]

Hi,

this is merely a question for oppinions that a real tech question...

I want to use a config-file per user on startup of my application so that each user can set a certain amount of parameters (language ao.) that are loaded on startup.

I've done this a few times already (never in VB, but this cannot pose any problems) but I was wondering if any of you have done this before and if you did, what form of file did you use...

I used simple flatfiles like below:
<key>: <value>

but I was thinking that XML may be a better solution to do this. (I do not want to write in the (windows-)registry nor in the DB I use).

So, should I stick to flatfiles or go for an XML (what I would have to learn how to do it)...

Thanks for your opinion

 

[EBGreen]

I prefer XML files for this. The XMLDOM already has all the methods you need to retrieve config information quickly and easily from an XML. Another advantage is that if other people are going to be altering the config info, then you can use XSLT to validate their changes.

 

[Overdoos]

Sounds interesting...

So you figure it's worth the time to learn how this XML-stuff works because of the extra possibilities it offers?

Any idea where there might be a good online tutorial on XMLDOM and/or XSLT and/or other related topics?

Thanx

 

[EBGreen]

I use the DevGuru XML reference:

http://www.devguru.com/

If you already have a good grasp of programming, it should be sufficient.

This is a pretty good page for info also:

http://www.juicystudio.com/tutorial/vb/xmldom.asp

 

[petermeachem]

Why not just use an ini file? Wouldn't that be easier?

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[Golom]

INI files are probably much easier if all you are dealing with is simple

PARM = VALUE

pairs. XML allows you to stack things hierarchically and its a real pain to simulate heirarchies with INI files.

 

[Overdoos]

thank you all for your valuable input in this matter. I'll take my time going through the links you all posted and keep the things in mind that have been said here.