Lightswitch is a new tool from Microsoft that is part of the Visual Studio family. It uses a Russian doll model structure with a backend SQL or Azure database in the middle tier connected to a Silverlight front end through WCF RIA services. Lightswitch handles complexity through proven multi-tiered design patterns so developers can focus on business logic. It utilizes the latest technologies like Silverlight and WCF RIA services while still providing programmers flexibility through extensibility and custom controls.

1. Lightswitch

2. Introduction
• Robert MacLean
• robertm@bbd.co.za
• www.sadev.co.za

3. Agenda
• What is Lightswitch?
• Structure
• Big Demo
• Custom controls
• Themes

4. What is it?
• NEW tool from Microsoft
• Part of the Visual Studio Family
• Russian Doll Model
• Focuses on forms over data problem

5. Structure
Backend
SQL or Azure
Databases Front End
SQL Express Middle Tier Silverlight
WCF RIA WCF RIA Services In Browser
Services OR
Out of Browser
SharePoint
Lists

6. Demo
Lightswitch

7. Extending Lightswitch
• Visual Studio Gallery

8. Demo
Theme Internals

9. Demo
Custom Controls

10. Summary
• Lightswitch
– New tool
– Proven practises
• Scalable multi-tiered design
– Latest technology
• Silverlight, WCF RIA Services
– Handles the complexity, lets you focus on the
business!
– Still a programmers tool!

11. Thanks!
• Robert MacLean
• robertm@bbd.co.za
• www.sadev.co.za