Podcast Revolutionizing Enterprise Software Development
Full Podcast about Revolutionizing Enterprise Software Development using tsql.app
[00:00:00] All right, everyone, welcome back to the deep dive. And today we're diving headfirst into something that really caught my eye. Oh, yeah. Yeah. Uh, T-sql app. Okay. And it claims that you can actually build entire web applications using just T-sql. Really? I know, right? And, you know, I was super skeptical at first. Yeah, I bet, but I started looking into documentation and the code examples, and I even found a demo for a pizza ordering app. Wow.
[00:00:29] So and the.
[00:00:29] More I dug into it, the more intrigued I got. So you're saying.
[00:00:32] That you could build like a full fledged, enterprise ready app using just T-sql?
[00:00:38] That's what they're claiming. And it's, you know, pretty bold claim. I think it definitely is.
[00:00:42] It's like challenging everything we think we know about software development. Right.
[00:00:46] Like usually you've got your back end languages, your front end languages, databases, frameworks, all these different moving parts. Yeah, exactly.
[00:00:52] Whole stack of technologies.
[00:00:53] But this is saying nope, you can do it all with just T-sql, which to be honest, initially sounded kind of crazy to me.
[00:01:00] Yeah, I can see that.
[00:01:01] Like using a language primarily known for database management to handle everything from the back end logic to the user interface.
[00:01:09] Yeah, that's a pretty big shift.
[00:01:10] Huge shift.
[00:01:11] Yeah. But then I.
[00:01:12] Started thinking about it from the perspective of businesses. Yeah. You know, especially those that are already heavily reliant on SQL databases. Right. They've got teams with T-sql expertise already. Yeah.
[00:01:22] Makes sense.
[00:01:23] So if they could leverage that existing knowledge to build applications. Imagine the reduced learning curve.
[00:01:30] Yeah absolutely.
[00:01:31] And the development time. I mean that could be huge. Right. And they really hit on that in their documentation. There's a PDF called T-sql App Coding for arrow dot PDF. And they claim that companies could see savings up to like 60%. Wow. By eliminating the need for all those extra tools and programing languages.
[00:01:50] That's a serious claim.
[00:01:51] It is. And then you add in their subscription based model, right. Which makes it accessible to businesses of all sizes, makes.
[00:01:58] It a lot more appealing for smaller companies who might not have those big budgets. Exactly.
[00:02:02] But okay, let's be real for a second. Can a single language really handle all the complexities of building a modern web application.
[00:02:11] That's the big question, isn't it?
[00:02:13] It is, especially when you think about the front end building.
[00:02:16] Those user interfaces that are both functional and engaging.
[00:02:19] And that's not exactly what T-sql is known for.
[00:02:21] No it's not, but they've actually addressed this in their documentation. They've integrated Reactjs for the front end. Oh, interesting. Yeah. So for those who aren't familiar, React.js is a JavaScript library that's really popular for building those dynamic and interactive user interfaces. Okay, so they're not.
[00:02:38] Trying to reinvent the wheel completely.
[00:02:40] Exactly. They're leveraging a framework that's already established. That's good.
[00:02:43] To hear, but I'm still curious about how it actually works in practice. Yeah. Like do you write SQL queries and they magically transform into buttons and drop downs?
[00:02:53] Well, not magically, but it's pretty clever. Okay. They've developed a system that allows you to define those UI elements and their behavior directly within your T-sql code. For example, in their code example Hello world MD file, they show you how to create a simple hello world application, but it has email functionality and it uses procedures like snappy modal input.
[00:03:16] Snappy modal input.
[00:03:18] Yeah. And that generates a modal dialog box where the user can input information.
[00:03:22] Wait. Hold on. So you're saying I can build a modal dialog box with T-sql.
[00:03:27] That's the approach they've taken.
[00:03:29] That's uh, that's pretty wild.
[00:03:31] It is. And to make the whole development process even smoother, they've included a built in IDE.
[00:03:36] Oh, wow.
[00:03:37] Yeah. So think of it as your all in one coding workspace. Okay. And get this, it uses the Monaco code editor, which is the same one that's in Visual Studio Code.
[00:03:46] Really. So like a proper full fledged IDE. Yes. That's pretty smart. I mean, streamlines everything. You don't have to jump between different tools.
[00:03:53] It keeps everything in one place.
[00:03:55] But okay, that's.
[00:03:55] Great for simple examples, but can this really handle building more complex real world applications?
[00:04:00] Well, that's where things get even more interesting. Remember that pizza app you mentioned? That's just the tip of the iceberg. Okay. They also provide in-depth documentation for building a complete boxes and items management system.
[00:04:13] A whole management system.
[00:04:14] Yes, and it shows you how to use their platform to create a practical solution for like tracking and managing inventory.
[00:04:23] A whole management system built entirely in T-sql.
[00:04:26] That's what they claim.
[00:04:27] So I'm starting to see the potential here, but how do they even begin to structure something that complex using a language that's traditionally meant for databases?
[00:04:36] That's a great question, and that's where we'll pick things up in the next part of our deep dive. Okay, so before the break, we were talking about how T-sql app tackles building something as complex as a management system using primarily T-sql.
[00:04:49] Yeah, it's mind boggling to think about how you'd even start structuring something like that with a language we usually associate with just databases. Well, this.
[00:04:57] Is where the card system comes in. Card system? Yeah. It's basically a way to visually organize the functionality and ensure a consistent UI.
[00:05:03] Okay. So I'm picturing like index cards, each representing a different part of the application.
[00:05:08] Not visually, no, but conceptually you're on the right track. Okay. Each card kind of corresponds to a table in your database, but it's more than just a static representation of data. So like if.
[00:05:19] We think back to that boxes and items management system, you mentioned that there would be a card for boxes and another for items. Exactly right.
[00:05:26] And each card can have its own specific actions and behaviors associated with it.
[00:05:31] What kind of actions?
[00:05:32] Well, these actions are actually implemented as custom procedures still written in T-sql. Okay. That interact with the underlying data and then provide feedback to the user.
[00:05:42] So for example.
[00:05:42] On the boxes card you might have actions like add new box, view box contents or delete box. Exactly. And all of that's controlled through T-sql procedures.
[00:05:51] Precisely. It's a clever way to break down complex functionality into these manageable chunks, all while staying within the familiar world of T-sql.
[00:06:01] That's pretty brilliant when you think about it. It's like bridging the gap between traditional database operations and the interactivity of a user interface, and they.
[00:06:08] Take it a step further. Well, they've integrated real time feedback mechanisms using what they call toast messages.
[00:06:15] Toast messages? Yeah.
[00:06:16] So think of those little pop up notifications you see in web applications. Oh, wait, they give you that quick feedback or updates without interrupting your workflow. Right, right. So if you were to add a new item to a box in this management system, a toast message might pop up and say item added successfully.
[00:06:34] Gotcha.
[00:06:34] So it's a way to keep the user informed without, you know, taking over the whole screen.
[00:06:39] Exactly. And they've even incorporated toast messages into their pizza app example.
[00:06:44] Oh, right.
[00:06:45] The pizza app. I have to admit, I'm still kind of stuck on that example. It seems almost too fun to be a serious demonstration of their platform.
[00:06:52] It is fun, but it cleverly highlights how Typekit app can be used for more than just those run of the mill business applications.
[00:06:58] Okay, but isn't it a bit of a stretch to compare a simple pizza ordering app to something as complex as a management system?
[00:07:06] You'd be surprised. It might seem simplistic, but the pizza app actually demonstrates some fundamental concepts of how T-sql app handles user interaction and dynamic content.
[00:07:16] Okay, I'm listening. What makes this pizza app so insightful?
[00:07:19] Well, for starters, it shows how they use T-sql to create those dynamic user prompts we talked about earlier. Okay, remember that pineapple on pizza question? Yeah, that's not just a static line of text, right? It's driven by T-sql code that evaluates the user's input and then generates those personalized responses.
[00:07:36] So it's more than just a yes or no question.
[00:07:39] Exactly. It adapts based on what the user chooses.
[00:07:41] And those.
[00:07:42] Funny responses like pineapple crisis averted or cheese level over 9000, those are.
[00:07:48] Also controlled by T-sql. Yeah, showing the potential for creating that engaging and interactive user experience.
[00:07:54] Okay, I see how even a seemingly simple example like that can actually give you some valuable insights into how the platform works.
[00:08:02] And it highlights another key benefit of T-sql app rapid prototyping.
[00:08:07] Rapid prototyping.
[00:08:08] Imagine you have an idea for a new internal tool or a way to streamline a process. Okay, traditionally, building even a basic prototype can take a lot of time and resources.
[00:08:19] Yeah, especially if you're working with multiple languages and frameworks.
[00:08:22] Exactly.
[00:08:22] But with T-sql, ATP, you're working within a single language and a framework that's already geared towards UI interaction.
[00:08:29] So you could potentially go from idea to a working prototype in a matter of days.
[00:08:34] It's possible. And that speed can be a game changer for businesses that need to move quickly.
[00:08:39] That's incredibly powerful, but let's not get too carried away. I'm sure T-sql app has its limitations. No, technology is perfect, right?
[00:08:48] You're absolutely right. And exploring those limitations, along with some key considerations. For businesses, thinking about adopting T-sql app is exactly what we'll do in the final part of our demo.
[00:08:58] All right, so we're back home.
[00:08:59] We've been spending this episode taking a deep dive into T-sql app.
[00:09:02] Really.
[00:09:03] Pushing the boundaries of what we think T-sql can do.
[00:09:05] Right?
[00:09:06] Like building entire applications just with T-sql. It's a pretty wild concept.
[00:09:11] Definitely challenges a lot of our assumptions about software development.
[00:09:14] Absolutely. And, you know, we've seen how it handles interactive user interfaces and even complex management systems.
[00:09:21] It's pretty impressive what they've been able to accomplish.
[00:09:23] It is.
[00:09:24] And, you know, it's not just about the technology itself. It's about what this could mean for businesses, especially those already deeply embedded in the Microsoft SQL server.
[00:09:34] World, right?
[00:09:35] I mean, for companies that already have teams skilled in T-sql, this could be a real game changer.
[00:09:40] Yeah, leveraging.
[00:09:41] That expertise, streamlining development, potentially cutting costs. It's a powerful combination for sure.
[00:09:47] But as with any new technology, I think it's important to look at T-sql app with a balanced perspective.
[00:09:53] Okay. So let's talk about those limitations. What are some of the potential downsides or challenges that businesses might face if they're considering T-sql app?
[00:10:01] Well, the most obvious one is that it's tied to the Microsoft SQL server ecosystem, right?
[00:10:06] So if your business is using a different database platform, T-sql.
[00:10:09] App is not going to be an option.
[00:10:11] Makes sense. It's not a universal solution. It's designed specifically for those operating within the Microsoft SQL server world.
[00:10:18] Exactly. And even if you are a Microsoft shop, there's the question of your team's comfort level with T-sql. Yeah, I mean, lots of developers have some SQL experience, right? But building entire applications in T-sql requires a much deeper level of proficiency.
[00:10:33] It's a whole.
[00:10:33] Different ball game, right? It's not just writing basic queries anymore.
[00:10:36] Exactly. You're building the entire logic and functionality of the application using T-sql.
[00:10:41] And then there's also the learning curve of the T-sql app framework itself.
[00:10:46] Oh, absolutely. It has its own set of conventions, procedures, best practices that developers will need to learn.
[00:10:51] So even for a seasoned T-sql developers, there's a new way of thinking and working that they have to adapt to.
[00:10:57] Yeah, exactly. And that takes time and effort, which is important to consider. Okay.
[00:11:01] So we've got limitations learning curve. What about the overall developer experience. Is it enjoyable to work with T-sql app.
[00:11:09] That's a tough one to answer. It really depends on the developer. Some might love the simplicity, the focus on a single language. Others might miss the flexibility in the wider ecosystem of those traditional development tools.
[00:11:20] It's like some people prefer that streamlined, all in one toolbox, while others want a whole workshop full of specialized tools.
[00:11:27] Yeah, and there's no right or wrong answer there. It really comes down to personal preferences and the needs of the project.
[00:11:32] So for businesses.
[00:11:34] Out there who are intrigued by T-sql app, but maybe not sure if it's the right fit for them, what would you recommend? How should they approach evaluating this platform?
[00:11:45] I always recommend starting with a small pilot project. Okay. Don't jump in and try to build your most complex application right away. Use a pilot project to get familiar with the framework. Identify any roadblocks. See if it aligns with your team's workflow.
[00:11:59] Dip your toes in the water before you jump in the deep end.
[00:12:01] Exactly. And T-sql app offers a lot of resources to help you get started. Oh that's good. Their website has documentation, code examples, a blog with helpful tips, even a free trial so you can really test drive the platform.
[00:12:14] That's great to hear. It sounds like they're committed to supporting businesses as they explore this new approach.
[00:12:19] They are. And that support is crucial, especially for those who are venturing into uncharted territory.
[00:12:24] Absolutely.
[00:12:25] Well, it looks like we've reached the end of our deep dive into T-sql app. We've covered a lot of ground today from that initial wait, what is this? Reaction to exploring how it handles those complex applications and even discussing the potential limitations.
[00:12:40] It's been a really fascinating journey.
[00:12:42] It has.
[00:12:43] And the biggest takeaway for me is that T-sql, ACP really makes us question those assumptions we have about what's possible in software development.
[00:12:52] Yeah, it.
[00:12:52] Pushes us to think outside the box, explore new ways to leverage existing skills and.
[00:12:57] Technologies.
[00:12:58] And who knows, it might just inspire a whole new generation of developers to approach software development in a completely different way.
[00:13:04] Maybe we'll see a whole wave of T-sql powered applications.
[00:13:07] Well, to all.
[00:13:08] Our listeners out there, we hope you found this exploration of T-sql, Abap as interesting as we did. And if you're curious to learn more, be sure to visit their website at https T-sql Dot app.
[00:13:19] They've got a ton of information available, and you can even give it a shot yourself with that free trial.
[00:13:24] So until next time, keep exploring. Keep questioning, and keep diving deep into the ever changing world of technology.