Mike,

I'd agree that Windows Installer has a pretty steep initial learning curve, particulary when it comes to upgrades and patches, but a good tool like InstallShield Express or Wise for Windows Installer can make the job much easier. If you're thinking of upgrading from the free InstallShield Express Limited Edition that comes with VFP, the one you want to look at is InstallShield X Express (X as in '10'), which is the successor to Express 5.0 / 4.0 / 3.54. It lists for $449, but in the past there have somtimes been promotional prices on the Express products if you can afford to wait and see.

OTOH if you're looking for alternatives there are non-Windows Installer tools like the free Inno Setup that can do a fine job for VFP apps, too.

You can find some papers on these topics on my website at http://www.ita-software.com/foxpage.htm#papers. Some of the information there may be helpful to you in making a decision.

-Rick


>Rick:
>
>Thank you for your reply.
>
>I am now seriously thinking of using the VFP 6.0 installer for doing the upgrades. At this point, ISE will have already installed the runtimes, .dlls and component support files, so my needs are pretty basic for the upgrades.
>
>But I will look at your suggestion as well.
>
>I found that ISE had a pretty convoluted learning curve and I am beginning to wonder if it was worth it. I think I would look at other products before laying my money down for an ISE Upgrade. They want $1199 for an upgrade to IS Professional 10.5 and this is for a product that may not even work!
>
>Mike Smith