Does one really need an installer for runtime solutions?

[shawnj985]

I was under the impression that FM 8.5 adv had the capabilities to "package" a solution with an installer for the enduser.

I am currently working on a database and would like to know ahead of time what I would need to purchase for my endusers? Does it comes with some kind of installer?

[The Big Bear]

Shawn

I do not known if FM 8.5 comes with an installer but you can download a free installer that is simple to use and it works at Inno setup 5.com.

Lionel

[SteveB]

FM Advanced 8.5 (or any version) does not come with an installer. On the windows platform, an installer makes life a lot easier for the end-user. Altho you could use something like WinZip, it won't automatically do all the things a true

installer will do, like putting an icon on the desktop, entry in the Start Menu, Uninstall, etc.

Inno Setup is a good, free tool. I use Setup Factory (from Indigo Rose), which is not cheap, but will create a bulletproof install in minutes without much for you to learn.

Steve

[pjdodd]

The main benefit of an installer is that it places all your files in the "right" location...assume that your clients are a bit thick and somewhat lazy and therefore the need to have installation software that does their thinking and actions for them becomes necessary.

'Tis a fact of life, in my opinion.