>I had someone post a message on my forum asking if foxpro was a true RDBMS. I would like to answer him. But I don't think I have the full answer to his question! Could someone please look at his message and reply with a knowlegeable answer.
>
>Here is the link.
>http://www.planot.com/forum/display_topic_threads.asp?ForumID=31&TopicID=68&PagePosition=1
>

VFP is not truly a relational RDBMS, but it is a very effective tool to build front ends to relational databases. One of the main reasons it is so effective is because it's language is strongly data oriented and because it includes a local database. Naturally, it has other good characteristics like object orientation, etc. but it is it's data orientation that makes it truly superior IMO.

Other distinguishing characteristics of VFP are macros and the ability to compile at run time. While some disagree, macro capability can be very useful in some situations.

I think that maybe the student did not understand fully the very disciplined instructor on the part about "the API needed by developers".

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The quote:
My very disiplined instructor that is really making me understand the true meaning on data base design saids that FoxPro is not a True RDBMS because it does not offer the tools such as the API needed by developers? I know the screen builder is great, but the sticking point seems to be the "Relational" part.

I have countless books that say otherwise. I know we can build EXE's.

We also have

Table, Form, Query, Report and "a procedural language compiler ?" do we?

We have a

Run time Form processor, Query processor, Report Writer and a " procedural language runtime"? Do we have these Runtimes.?
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