Writing program code that make attractive user interfaces is time consuming and, at times, hard. Many examples of environments that combat this problem can be seen throughout the computer industry. When Java hit the world by storm it seemed probable that similar design tools would emerge for what is a popular language. Lava is one free example of such as design tool, written in the language it was originally built to design for, Java.
By drawing components on a grid based screen, the user can quickly add and delete portions of the user interface whilst getting a feel for how it will look while designing it. The user can save and alter user interface designs and, at any time, generate the program code that generates an interface the same as the one designed on the screen.
Permission to use, copy, modify, and distribute Lava for any personal or educational use without fee is hereby granted, provided that:
No part of Lava may be distributed as a part or accompaniment of any commercial package or product without the explicit written permission of the author and copyright holder. The distribution of commercial products which require or make use of Lava will normally be permitted if the Lava distribution is supplied separately to and offered at cost price to the purchaser of the commercial product.
In specifying these conditions, our intention is to permit widespread use of Lava while, at the same time, protecting the interests, rights and efforts of all those involved. Please contact the author and copyright holder to arrange alternative terms and conditions if your intended use of Lava is not permitted by the terms and conditions in this notice.
Lava is supplied free of charge as detailed above. I am however a poor and lonely student and so if you want to send me money, postcards, proposals of marriage etc, direct them via my email address.