Macromedia Cold Fusion

Macromedia ColdFusion is completely suitable for any multi-page website, although it was designed to handle those that have high traffic. Unlike some programming languages, ColdFusion is not difficult to learn, partly because it is an extension of HTML and XML. If she opened a ColdFusion manual with breakfast, the average web designer could have an uncomplicated website up and running before lunch.

Although ColdFusion is considered non-threatening, it is capable of performing some very complex tasks through built-in functions. Occasional problems that are encountered are almost invariably caused by a browser adversely affecting CF, not the other way around. (Macromedia posts solutions to these anomalies in its knowledge base.) Groundbreaking is the word to describe some of the newer features. These include turning web content into PDF formats with just one tag, and creating interfaces with cell phones.

The interested visitor can take a tour of ColdFusion features on the Macromedia website. Following that, it's helpful to read their Getting Started articles. Quite a number of them relate to ColdFusion MX 7. One of them states that it's possible to "get started with ColdFusion in 30 minutes."

The engineering team has also written articles for the developer, including the basics of working with databases. Building an actual database application is covered in a series of tutorials. Postings include code snippets, sample applications and new features. ColdFusion online demos also orientate new users and get them up and running. Making use of all available resources speeds the learning process, even for those who are a quick study.