Mike Swanson
e0a117b434
Initial research session for VWP application modernization. Analyzed 2.7GB application archive, mapped ~130-table Access 97 schema via binary scan, confirmed VB6 + P-Code compilation (decompilation viable), and identified compliance requirements (certified payroll, 3-bank positive pay). Co-Authored-By: Claude Sonnet 4.6 <noreply@anthropic.com>
2.4 KiB
2.4 KiB
Valleywide App Modernization — Project Context
Client
Valley Wide Plastering (VWP) — valleywideplastering.com
Overview
VWP uses a custom business application of unknown exact stack (suspected MS Access and/or Visual FoxPro). The original developer is deceased. The app still runs but is hitting end-of-life limitations. Goal is to assess feasibility of modernization — either as a web app or a modern desktop executable.
Known Constraints / Pain Points
- 2GB database file limit — strongly suggests MS Access (.mdb / Jet engine). VFP uses per-table .dbf files so a single 2GB wall is more characteristic of Access.
- Original author deceased — no support, no documentation expected
- Unknown whether VFP is actually involved — confirm once source materials are received
Stack Hypothesis (pre-source)
| Layer | Likely | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Database | MS Access .mdb (Jet 3.x/4.x) | 2GB single-file limit is the tell |
| Frontend | MS Access forms OR Visual FoxPro | Need source files to confirm |
| Language | VBA (if Access) / FoxPro (if VFP) |
Visual FoxPro EOL was 2015. MS Access Jet/.mdb is still technically supported but ancient.
Source Materials Needed
- The .mdb or .accdb file (database + forms if pure Access)
- If VFP: .prg, .scx, .vcx, .frx, .dbf, .fpt, .cdx files
- Any .exe or compiled application if available
- Screenshots or walkthrough of what the app does
Research Questions (Phase 1)
- What is the exact stack? (confirm Access vs VFP vs hybrid)
- How many tables? Approximate row counts?
- What business processes does it cover? (estimating, job tracking, billing, scheduling?)
- How many concurrent users? On-prem only or remote access needed?
- Does it integrate with anything? (QuickBooks, email, external data sources?)
- What are the specific pain points beyond the file size limit?
Target Options
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Web app (browser-based) | No client install, remote access, no file limits | More dev work, requires hosting |
| Modern desktop executable | Closest to current UX, works offline | Still requires client deployment |
Status
- Receive source materials from VWP
- Identify exact stack
- Catalog tables and data volume
- Map business processes
- Produce feasibility report with stack recommendation
Session Logs
session-logs/— work logs for this sub-project