The Howdy Glossary

Xojo is a rapid application development platform created by Geoff Perlman and Xojo, Inc., designed to simplify the process of creating cross-platform applications. It allows developers of all experience levels to build applications using a programming language that blends elements of Visual Basic and Java. The platform features an integrated development environment (IDE) where users can design interfaces, write code, and debug programs in one unified space. Xojo supports compiling code for multiple platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux, web applications via CGI or Xojo Cloud, and iOS.

The platform distinguishes itself through its simplicity and versatility. It offers a straightforward programming language that is easy to learn while providing powerful capabilities for cross-platform development. The IDE streamlines the entire development cycle from UI design to debugging within a single environment. This makes it easier for developers to create applications efficiently across various systems without needing separate tools for different stages of the process. Moreover, Xojo's ability to compile code for numerous platforms adds significant value by allowing developers to target multiple operating systems with one solution.

In a competitive landscape featuring other rapid application development tools like Microsoft Visual Studio, Flutter, Xamarin, Qt, and Electron, Xojo stands out due to its user-friendly approach and broad platform support. Unlike some competitors that may have steeper learning curves or less comprehensive cross-platform capabilities, Xojo focuses on making application development accessible yet powerful. Its integrated environment enhances productivity by unifying interface design, coding, and debugging tasks. These attributes make Xojo particularly appealing for both beginners looking for an easy entry point into programming and seasoned developers seeking an efficient tool for multi-platform application creation.