Exploring the Best Software Stack for Engineering Tools Beyond Excel

When it comes to creating simple engineering tools, Excel is a familiar and versatile option. However, as projects become more complex, engineers often seek alternatives that can handle broader and deeper analyses while remaining user-friendly. In this article, we'll explore various software stacks and frameworks that can serve as alternatives to Excel, focusing on their suitability for creating basic engineering tools.

Traditional Desktop Application Options

For those who prefer a stand-alone desktop application, there are several traditional frameworks to consider. Below are some popular choices:

Visual Basic (VB) and Windows Forms (WinForms)

For developers who need a lightweight solution, Visual Basic (VB) with Windows Forms (WinForms) is still a viable option. It is an older choice but remains effective for simple applications. However, the newer C# with Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) is often more favored for its modern UI capabilities and better performance. Both frameworks can be developed using Visual Studio or Visual Studio Code, and drag-and-drop UI creation is possible. While it does involve some coding for the calculations and data display, this can be manageable for straightforward tasks.

[Windows Forms] | [Windows Presentation Foundation - WPF]

Universal Windows Platform (UWP)

For an even more modern approach, developers can consider the Universal Windows Platform (UWP). UWP offers a consistent experience across Windows 10 devices and is compatible with both desktops and tablets. Similar to WPF, creating the UI can be done using drag-and-drop methods in Visual Studio, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a contemporary development environment.

Web-Based Solutions

The web has also emerged as a powerful platform for engineering tools. Here, we look at a few web-based options that can handle a combination of computations, text, and data:

Wolfram Cloud

For full power and versatility, the Wolfram Cloud is an excellent choice. With the Wolfram Language and Mathematica, it allows users to create simple web forms easily. Moreover, the Wolfram Cloud enables the deployment of entire notebooks, offering a comprehensive solution for complex engineering tasks. This platform is ideal for those who require advanced mathematical and computational capabilities within a web environment.

Online Apps: Coda and Notion

For more straightforward computations and data organization, online apps like Coda and Notion can be quite suitable. These tools integrate well with spreadsheets, applications, and APIs, making them a convenient choice for project management and data analysis. However, their suitability for specialized engineering tasks might vary, depending on the specific requirements of your projects.

TiddlyWiki

If you're looking for something more lightweight and flexible, TiddlyWiki is a fascinating option. It's a single-file web database that can be developed and edited locally. TiddlyWiki can handle a wide range of tasks, from simple note-taking to complex project management. While it may not be the best fit for all engineering tasks, its simplicity and portability make it a unique tool to consider.

Computer Algebra Systems (CAS)

There are numerous computer algebra systems (CAS) that can be leveraged for engineering tools. These systems are excellent for symbolic mathematics and can be integrated into end-user applications. CAS like Mathematica, SymPy (in Python), and Maxima might be suitable for packaging into standalone applications, providing powerful mathematical capabilities to users.

Considering Standalone and Offline Capabilities

If your final product needs to be standalone and not require installation, you might consider Python with Tkinter. Tkinter provides a straightforward way to build graphical user interfaces (GUIs) without the need for installation, making it ideal for deploying standalone applications. However, you'll need to address specific challenges related to file I/O and local storage.

A more sophisticated approach might involve combining HTML and JavaScript for web-based applications. While this can be done without installation, handling file I/O can be complex, and finding a balance between web functionality and standalone capabilities might require additional effort.

Ultimately, the choice of software stack for engineering tools beyond Excel depends on the specific requirements of your project. For basic standalone applications, options like Python with Tkinter or a combination of HTML and JavaScript may suffice. For more complex projects, a web-based solution like Wolfram Cloud might offer the best balance of power and flexibility.

Conclusion

While Excel is a familiar tool, migrating to a more specialized software stack can offer significant advantages for complex engineering tasks. Whether you choose desktop applications, web-based tools, or a combination of both, the right solution will depend on the specific needs of your projects and the level of complexity required.