Like for example, if I wanted to make business management software or even a simple game (like solitaire), what would be the best language and way to implement that?

As I understand Java is great for this and I would use it, but I want to make executable files that dont need the java runtime environment to work

This post was edited by oOn on Oct 18 2013 09:46am

Any variant of C..

In general, you have two options for programs. 1) compile natively to a specific architecture and OS and 2) interpret the code. option 2 requires every machine to have the interpreter, eg java requires JRE, .net requires CLR, javascript requires a browser (or other), python requires whatever its engine is called.

if you go native, then C/c++ are the most popular, but this restricts your portability. for a business management software, you can enforce all your users to install the requirements so it's not a problem. if you're making a game, then it often includes an installer anyway, so again requiring the interpreter is not a problem.

tldr pick your favourite. i recommend doing a POC with multiple languages/frameworks to help you figure that out.

This post was edited by carteblanche on Oct 18 2013 11:00am

java

You should go for C / C# / C++ then, since you often don't need extra redistribution packages for simple windows applications.

Do most people who make Java Apps use the GUI? If not, what else is good for it?

why do you mention java specifically? that's the more general question about what you can do with programs other than GUI. and there are lots of purposes. batch processes, web services, background processes, etc.

do you even lift?

Found this image of what language enterprise apps are built in;


Source: http://blogs.forrester.com/mike_gualtieri/10-11-23-java_is_a_dead_end_for_enterprise_app_development


Yes, most applications today use some sort of GUI. Why? Because using a GUI reaches most people, obviously. It's basically more user-friendly.


You seem interested in getting into lifting.

This post was edited by eagl3s1ght on Oct 19 2013 03:42am

Exactly the info I was looking for! Thanks!