Good coverage of WinForms & Data Binding

For an experienced programmer. This book provided what I needed to understand using databases in a WinForms environment (I had used ADO.NET for ASP.NET applications). The first 7 chapters cover database basics and an overview of the data bound controls (moderately valuable for an experienced programmer). I found the real substance (in my case) in Chapters 8, 10, and 11.

Chapter 8 covers a data entry form, how to bind data, navigate, and save changes. The first example is covered in detail the form is then enhanced with record selection options (a listbox, a treeview, and a filtered list box) only key items are discussed in the text (you need to review the downloadable code to fully understand, I like that the little things are not repeated).

Chapter 10 works with an order entry form with multiple DB data tables being maintained and navigating through the twists. Again, several approaches are presented so that you can choose the one with the look & feel you like. Chapter 11 discusses the mult-user situation.

I feel that these examples and clear writing allowed me to make the leap into data bound forms (I came from mostly Access programming where that is well handled). 4 stars because I would like to have seen some discussion/examples of an application with multiple screens and suggestions on how to address a slightly bigger application, but the book delivers on its stated goals.

Other Reviews

• Invest Your Money Elsewhere
• very good, but not for everyone
• If you are ready for it
• Good coverage of WinForms & Data Binding