Review: UltraDev 4

While the existing library of Server Behaviors is extensive, UltraDev was designed as an expandable product, so that new Behaviors could be added by programming them with the Dreamweaver JavaScript API. While this was a powerful option, it was not especially convenient. UltraDev 4 features a new Server Behavior Builder that lets you design new Behaviors without coding. In the screenshot below, I’ve put together a very simple example that will prompt the designer to choose a database record set and a column name and will display the selected text in red if the value from the database happens to be negative.

One of the biggest gripes that JSP developers had with the previous version of UltraDev was its weak support for JavaBeans. In UltraDev 4, JavaBeans can now be added as data sources just like database queries; their properties become available for use in creating dynamic text fields and such. Flexibility in this area could still be better (for example, the you must place copies of the Java class files for JavaBeans you wish to use into the UltraDev directory), but the fact that UltraDev now allows you to hand-code these sorts of things makes using JavaBeans components a lot more convenient than it was in the previous version.

If you’re used to hand coding your database-driven Web sites, UltraDev’s drag-and-drop WYSIWYG paradigm certainly takes some getting used to. With UltraDev 4’s support for direct code editing, however, you can get right to work with your existing skills and then gradually migrate to UltraDev’s helpful, time saving features. The only real disappointment in UltraDev 4 is the lack of support for PHP. If you’re committed to developing your sites in PHP, you had best look elsewhere; otherwise, download the 30-day trial version and find out for yourself how UltraDev can simplify your dynamic Web development tasks, letting you get more done in less time!

Pricing and Availability:

Dreamweaver UltraDev 4 for Windows and Macintosh – US$599
UltraDev 4 Fireworks 4 Studio – US$699
Dreamweaver UltraDev 4 Upgrade from Dreamweaver UltraDev – US$129
Dreamweaver UltraDev 4 Promotion for Dreamweaver Users – US$299

30-day free trial and full version available now at www.macromedia.com.