Friday, 20 June 2014

ColdFusion and various code coverage tools for testing applications

ColdFusion application development, ColdFusion development services, hire ColdFusion programmersCode Coverage also known as Test Coverage helps in exactly measuring the number of executed arcs, blocks or lines of the code when you are running automated tests. A special tool is used for collection which instruments the binaries so that tracing calls can be added and you can run an entire set of automated tests against the product instrumented. Generally good tools show you the percentage of executed code as well as allow the drilling of data so that you can find out the exact executed code lines during a specific test. In fact, you can also locate application functionality by virtue of the tools. Some of the various tools that you can use are discussed here.

ColdFusion or Rancho- ColdFusion is a name that most developers are familiar with. However, previously ColdFusion lacked in the department of code reporting tools. To make the framework even more formidable, an experimental tool known as Rancho was introduced. It is quite a great start. But there are certain limitations; it is expected that with time the tool will become a full-fledged one.

JFeature- This open source tool helps you focus in the requirements during the development of the code through leveraging from normal development practices. This Eclipse IDE’s plug-in allows importing of requirements so that they can be matched to JUnit test cases.

Quilt- A tool for Java software development, Quilt measures coverage as well. It is optimally used with the unit test package of JUnit, the toolkit of Maven project management as well as the build facility of Ant Java.

InsECT- Short for Instrumentation execution Coverage Tool, InsECT is a Java developed system which allows obtaining of coverage information in case of Java programs. It accounts for the language features as well as object-oriented behaviour and tries to provide detailed information regarding coverage of Java programs. In fact, since it is open-source, the design is extensible to be used for various kinds of dynamic analysis.

JCover- The code reporting analyzer is meant to be used for Java programs through provision of a mechanism that generates statistical coverage information when testing is being carried on an application. It helps in the calculation of the percentage of the executed as well as non-executed code, the unused sources, etc.

Emma- This open-source tool helps in measurement as well as reporting of Java code coverage. Classes are often instrumented for coverage either on the fly or offline. It supports reporting types like basic, method, class and line block.

Cobertura- This free Java tool helps in the calculation of the percentage of accessed codes. It also helps in identifying the parts of Java program which lack test reporting. It may be executed from command line or from ant. Java bytecode is also instrumented after its compilation. Reports can be generated in XML or HTML.

CodeCover- This code reporting tool is open source as well as extensible and supports branch, statement, strict condition along with loop coverage. It gives a very accurate coverage measurement by performing source instrumentation. Its full integration with JUnit allows test cases to be recognized automatically.

BullseyeCoverage- The C++ as well as C code reporting analyzer tool gives the amount of tested source code. Areas which cry for attention are pinpointed so that they can be reviewed. It supports coverage types such as condition or decision as well as function. It supports a huge assortment of platforms that includes Linux and Windows.

The tools covered here just illustrate the tip of the iceberg; there are several more tools available to meet your needs. However while using these, one thing that you must remember is that these act as metric of the amount of testing done; it is in no way a good metric to tell you about the performance of your product testing. If you want to ensure that the quality of your project is maintained other metrics should be used together with it. To get maximum benefits of ColdFusion, you may consider hiring services of a ColdFusion application development company.

We provide ColdFusion development services. If you would like to hire ColdFusion programmers from us, we would be glad to assist you at Mindfire Solutions.

Tuesday, 27 May 2014

How has ColdFusion development revolutionized the web app world?

ColdFusion development, ColdFusion web application development, ColdFusion web developerThe rapid scripting environment server called ColdFusion can be said to be the best thing to have happened in the world of dynamic web applications creation. The scripting language that it uses known as CFML or ColdFusion Markup Language can be learnt easily and is tag-based with enterprise data connectivity as well as built-in charting and search capabilities. It has helped developers across the world to deploy as well as build dynamic websites, commerce sites, self-service applications, content publishing systems, etc. The framework has a multitude of benefits which has made it indispensible for most developers and a framework to be reckoned with in the web app development world. The features that have led to the web app world being revolutionized are mentioned here.

CFML- CFML or ColdFusion Markup Language is tag-based, quite similar to HTML. CFML allows you to enhance normal HTML files through high-level formatting options, conditional operators, database commands, etc which produce rapid as well as easily maintainable web applications. There are other functions as well like creating Adobe Flash applications which entirely consist of CFML as well as Flash elements. Web services can also be created to be used by other apps. Other features are JSON enhancements, Member Functions support along with full CFSCRIPT support.

Scripting environment- A competent development model is provided by the scripting environment for web apps. CFML, which encapsulates many low-level facts of web programming in functions as well as high-level tags, is the main thing that makes the environment function.

CFScript along with CFML functions- There are some built-in functions to perform several kinds of roles that include data management, system functions as well as string manipulation. CFScript is the scripting language that is in-built and allows the writing of code in a way which is familiar to JavaScript writers as well as programmers.

Tags- The tags resemble HTML in the starting as well as the ending with each tag enclosed within angle brackets. A forward slash precedes every ending tag with cf preceding all tag names. An abstraction layer provided by it helps increase productivity. It is also quite flexible and powerful, allowing ColdFusion to build apps integrating databases, files, mail servers, legacy systems, objects, components along with FTP servers. Programming constructs like loop structures and conditional processing are provided by the tags along with services like graphing, charting, access to protocols like SMTP/POP, HTTP, FTP, etc, full text search along with so much more.

Development tools- ColdFusion applications can be efficiently developed by Dreamweaver which has several features simplifying as well as enhancing the development; there are tools to debug CFML.

Extensions- You can also create UDFs or user-defined functions or custom tags; C++, COM along with Java components can be integrated as well. CFCs can be created to encapsulate related properties along with functions to provide consistent access interface.

Security- There is a mechanism built-in so that external forces cannot access Administrator portal or any of its components. There are additional functions that prevent XSS, allowing concurrent logins or access through CFLOGIN. Mail encryption is also supported through CFMAIL. User input can be sanitized through new functions so that servers become more secure against cross-site scripting as well as click-jacking. Any data can be more securely published over SSL or Secure Socket Layer.

Efficient working with PDF- Full access is provided to DDX or Document Description XML which allows a lot more actions with PDFs like adding bookmarks, comments, footers, headers, file attachments, etc. The PDF’s appearance can be customized through setting of page size, rotation as well as margins. Electronic signatures also make the files more secure.

Overall the digital experiences provided by the platform have affected the world quite a bit. This application server is multi-tasking allowing developers to juggle many roles. So if you get a single place where you can conduct speedy development, deployment, testing as well debugging then what is the need to look for something else. On top of that Adobe is constantly upgrading ColdFusion and adding new features so that it can accommodate more technicalities; the constant upgrades equip it to become more relevant with the evolving times as well as the web app development world. To get maximum benefits of ColdFusion, you may consider hiring services of a ColdFusion development company.

We provide ColdFusion web application development services. If you would like to discuss with a certified ColdFusion web developer from our team, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.

Monday, 10 March 2014

ColdFusion engagement with SOAP web services

For ColdFusion, integration acts as an important focal point as well as key strength. Most messaging frameworks along with protocols for effective communication with various platforms are supported by ColdFusion; the same is applicable for web services. The architectural style categorizes web service into two main divisions- those based on SOAP or Simple Object Access Protocol and REST or Representational State Transfer compliant ones. SOAP, the lightweight protocol is used for messaging systems or to invoke remote procedure cells so that information can be exchanged in distributed environment. Creation as well as consumption of SOAP-based ones are very easy for ColdFusion.

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Web services are technologies related to software which facilitate machine-to-machine communication through a network. All machines supposedly understand as well as process the Web Services Discovery Language or WSDL format which sets up engagement rules for the interaction. The rules are in turn enforced through sending of messages which are carried by SOAP envelopes. The popular protocols like SMTP, HTTP, etc are used for carrying as well as delivery of the envelopes. The interaction language between machines is XML or eXtensible Markup Language. XML forms the basis of SOAP which consists of three parts-

  • Convention for representation of remote procedure responses as well as calls.
  • Encoding rule sets to interpret data types that are application-defined.
  • Framework to describe the essence of the message and the way to process it.

The onerous task of data translation as well as data types conversion between service providers along with consumers is handled by SOAP.


Apache Axis is used by ColdFusion as the underlying engine for the implementation of web services that are SOAP-based. It is in fact a reliable and proven implementation of SOAP. The very first step in the building of ColdFusion-based ones is by writing a CFC or ColdFusion component which takes object-like approach for related functions grouping as well as business logic encapsulation. A leading role is also played for the accessing and defining of a single one. CFC may be created or prebuilt CFC may be reused with operations that may be exposed as functions to make the CFC remote call-accessible through specification of access=”remote”. Then web service makes the CFC location its endpoint with the remote functions becoming operations which may be invoked on it.

After the creation of web service, it can be invoked from ColdFusion through a variety of ways. It may be called with <cfinvoke>, <cfobject> and CreateObject. Then Stubs are refreshed or proxy is created.

When the services are developed, one very important thing to consider is security since many business functions get exposed with them, thus expanding the interaction boundaries which increases your security responsibilities that include access control, authentication, privacy as well as data integrity. The web service can be published over HTTPs as that will ensure point-to-point security since communication is secured by SSL at transport level. ColdFusion can also be used for control access.

While using web services we often feel confused which form to use- REST or SOAP-based ones. When opting for SOAP-based ones you must remember that they are object-oriented which helps in easy solutions. The declarative nature ensures that standard WSDL format is used for description. The tooling support is great as well. Using SOAP-based web service will ensure that access through middleware or intermediate server is beneficial.

Creating web service in ColdFusion can be quite an easy job especially if you have the basic knowledge to write components and functions. Consumer coding is very easy as well; just WSDL reference, arguments necessary for service and return variable must be provided. Great SOAP functionality is provided as well and encapsulating them into the components will yield you good results. You can hire developers from top custom ColdFusion development company in India who can help you build applications within allocated budgets and time schedules.

We provide ColdFusion development services. If you would like to get your application developed by our certified ColdFusion programmer, please contact us at Mindfire Solutions.

Tuesday, 11 February 2014

The Advantages of Developing Websites With ColdFusion

The ColdFusion software has been released by Adobe Systems and this programming language helps developers build, deploy as well as maintain powerful web applications efficiently. More interactive and dynamic applications can be created with its help which aids enterprises and businesses especially since websites built on this platform offer a number of advantages, attracting new customers, increasing sales and basically growing the customer base. Here are some of the benefits given to help gather the advantages associated with adopting this platform.

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Does not need test server- One really helpful feature that this platform has is the entire application which helps you write the language. After you are done with it, Apache or IIS can be used; but this application effectively acts as its very own test server when the script writing is being done which saves you from a lot of headaches. However, there is a disadvantage associated as well. Since its running is done on Java framework on the web, ColdFusion sometimes may be slow and unreliable. However, due to the Java support it is enabled to run on many operating systems which may not otherwise have been possible. In fact writing in ColdFusion offers you the same benefits as those for using Java but the writing is on the whole quite less difficult. You will get many choices due to this language using Open Database Connectivity or ODBC standard instead of associating itself to just a single database. So when you sacrifice the speed of your website, you get quicker development time, compatibility as well as more choices.

Learning becomes easy- This language is extremely easy to learn since it is quite similar to normal HTML. In essence it is like HTML's extension tag set and you would not have to struggle with trying to make it do things, then later converting the output as HTML. Since the designing was done for web from scratch it does not behave like a normal language which tries to be compatible with the web. After the tag concept becomes familiar to you, it will become natural and will feel HTML-like when compared to other languages. In fact, belying its simplicity ColdFusion may be said to be in competition with languages such as ASP.NET and JSP.

Java- A huge benefit of ColdFusion is that its running is not done on Java. Java classes can be called by the use of the createObject function. Any method needed can be used and the results can be got in ColdFusion variables. Knowing Java code or having an existing one will be extremely useful to you as you will be able to access all J2EE libraries along with ColdFusion's as well. In fact, due to this feature Macromedia has been marketing this language as J2EE's scripting layer.

CFScript- If you try to write down dynamic web pages and all you have is tags then after a short while you will start feeling restrictive and especially so if there is something complicated to be done. This will only result in a mass of tags that are hard to read and much like attempting to do page layout with the help of tables. This problem has been solved with the introduction of CFScript which is a language that resembles Javascript and can be put between “”tags. For the experienced programmer this might prove to be simpler to work with when compared to the actual code.

Integrating with Macromedia products- When designing pages in Dreamweaver, the scripting can be done in ColdFusion as that will give advantages of dual integration. Other good integration happens with Flash as well.

These advantages are just the tip of the iceberg. Using the language offers a multitude of benefits including more security for the applications and improved performance. Thus using this can be great choice for most site owners. But it is also very important to keep in mind that this application cannot be supported by all hosts. Even those who do, should note whether the specific version required by the website can be supported or not. Also they should make it certain whether the hosting provider is reliable or not. You can hire developers from top ColdFusion web development company in India who can help you build mobile apps within allocated budgets and time schedules.

We provide ColdFusion development services. If you would like to get your application developed by our certified Coldfusion programmers, please contact us at Mindfire Solutions.

Tuesday, 17 September 2013

When should you choose ColdFusion for Web development?

ColdFusion web development happens to be one of the rapidly growing as well as most preferred tools for developing rich, interactive and dynamic web apps. Developers and clients equally favor this programming language for the support it renders to craft a wide range of web apps. The ColdFusion language is in use across the globe. At present the more advanced versions of this technology have resulted in the boost in the number of users.


So far as this programming language is concerned, the developers need not be proficient programmers. Beginners can learn this language with great convenience. However, a proficient ColdFusion developer is capable of making more effective use of the technology and leverages it completely for obtaining maximum advantage. Since it is an open source technology, ColdFusion can be used freely. It is therefore extremely cost-effective.

It is always good to choose ColdFusion Web development whether you are an amateur or a professional web developer intending to add a glamorous touch to your website. There is obviously wider number of options than ASP.NET or PHP for scripting of interactive web pages. For more than 10 years, this programming language has been in the market. It is the perfect choice suiting all levels of proficiency. Most of the things that the language can do are amazing and constitute a standard aspect of the software. Here are some great facts:

  • The language comes free for the web developer as well as the end-user.
  • Most major hosts render support to it.
  • A number of web developers work on ColdFusion
  • This language can be conveniently learnt and helps in the rapid development of applications.
  • It is a comprehensive package comprising every tool a developer needs to know.
  • It is an Adobe product which comes with built-in hooks with a number of their products. To be elaborate, Adobe creates Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, PDF and Flash. Almost all developers would possess at least one of these core development tools. Hence, the scripting tool from the same company may be used conveniently.

One of the main reasons why ColdFusion is remarkable is that the language is tag based. It provides more advanced procedures for scripting, but majority of developers make use of the tags for completion of the tasks. On the whole, every scripting that is required behind the scenes has been reframed into tag that is convenient to use. With the help of tags, you have lesser text to write. In almost all the cases, it is a matter of plain intuition as against other scripting languages.

You can definitely opt for ColdFusion when you wish to obtain the following benefits:

Application can be created within a short span of time using fewer lines of code. ColdFusion facilitates quick development of applications owing to its convenient to use development environment. Lines of code can be cut in every application through summarization of intricate actions into intuitive as well as simple tags.

Apps can be repaired easily and problems can be quickly resolved. This potent development tool enables developers to precisely see what is happening in every application, fix and identify issues prior to operation, and regulate the server for ensuring optimal performance.

End-user activity can be developed through more robust and richer applications. Going beyond simple HTML, users can experience customized applications which are rich in multimedia features. With the help of this programming language, businesses can enable their website users to interact with potent PDF forms and also HTML. It is indeed exciting to experience on-demand, high-quality presentations on websites.

ColdFusion enables businesses to go for installation of application in premier J2EE application servers. There is also the opportunity to include these applications with almost every environment due to the support available for .Net and Java objects.

This programming language has seamless features which are very easy to learn. ColdFusion can be used whenever a business wants to project its identity through compelling and systematic web development.

We provide ColdFusion application development services. We are glad to share that all our ColdFusion developers have cleared industry certifications. If you would like to hire ColdFusion programmers from us, we would be glad to assist you at Mindfire Solutions.

Tuesday, 10 September 2013

6 Reasons Why Start Up Companies use ColdFusion

The ongoing recessional phase of the economy is making it difficult for startup companies to develop robust web applications. On one hand, they have to impress clients by optimizing the aesthetic appeal and performance of their websites. On the other hand, they have to develop the website with limited timescale and resources. So the startup companies often look for a rapid web application development platform that will enable them to build robust internet applications. The latest version of ColdFusion comes with a set of features that complement the web application development projects of both existing and startup businesses. A startup can further avail several advantages by using ColdFusion to build websites, web applications and web services.

Why Startup Companies Must Use ColdFusion 10?

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1. Enhanced Scalability: Each website, nowadays, needs to be effective in receiving and processing a large number of user requests at a time. So developers have to test the application thoroughly to ensure that it is scalable. As a scalable platform, ColdFusion enables the application to handle heavy load. As the framework has supported several high-traffic websites, a startup can easily avail the advantage. At the same time, built in ehCache integration makes it easier for programmers to make the websites more scalable using clustered caches.

2. Easy to Learn: Unlike the large software firms, the startups cannot afford to hire experienced website developers. So these enterprises mostly develop the web application through inexperienced programmers. It is always easier to opt for a technology that can be learned by the programmers easily and quickly. Similar to HTML, ColdFusion also uses a set of tags. The tags often seem like extension of normal HTML tags. Unlike other scripting languages, ColdFusion can be learned and used by the developers within a short span of time.

3. No Need to Use a Test Server: Often enterprises have to invest in test servers to evaluate the performance and scalability of the application. But ColdFusion comes with a complete application that enables the startup companies to avoid test servers. The application can be used with the IIS and Apache to run the test scripts smoothly. Further, the framework supports Java fully. So the application will work smoothly on operating systems that support Java. As it supports Open Database Connectivity (ODBC) standard, an enterprise also has options to choose from several databases.

4. Integration with Other Technologies: Often software developers are required to integrate a new interface into the existing software of the client. Also, most web applications use third-party software to improve user experience. A startup company can use ColdFusion to integrate the internet application with a variety of technologies in a fast and cost-efficient way. As the framework is designed based on JVM, it allows programmers to use existing Java frameworks and libraries. Also, the developers can integrate the ColdFusion application with several technologies including XML, SOAP, Java objects, REST, AMF, .NET assemblies, Message Queues and SMS gateways.

5. Support for HTML5: Most people, nowadays, access websites on their mobile devices. So clients want their websites to be compatible with both all types of conventional and mobile devices. ColdFusion 10 is designed with full support for HTML5. The HTML5 support enables programmers to make the web application compatible with different operating systems without writing lengthy code. The feature further makes it easier to optimize user experience by designing the website with video player, interactive charting, web sockets and geo-tagging. Also, the website can be made secure by using advanced encryption and authentication methods.

6. Suitable for Cloud Environment: Most enterprises nowadays invest in building Cloud infrastructure. However, the nature and extent of the investment vary from one company to another. If the startup company has already built a Cloud infrastructure, it can use ColdFusion 10 on Amazon Web Services. In addition to being simple and cost-effective, the feature also makes the framework suitable for the enterprises deploying distributed teams. As most startups outsource projects to keep overheads under control, the web services will help them in building robust websites without incurring any additional expenses.

Each enterprise also has option to choose from different editions of ColdFusion 10. Along with the standard and enterprise editions, a company can also use the developer edition of the ColdFusion application development framework. So it becomes easier for startups to avail the advantages of ColdFusion according to their specific requirements and budget.

We provide ColdFusion development services. We are glad to share that all our ColdFusion developers have cleared industry certifications. If you would like to hire ColdFusion developers from us, we would be glad to assist you at Mindfire Solutions.

Tuesday, 13 August 2013

Why Outsource ColdFusion Reports Development Services?

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Adobe released ColdFusion 10 in May 2012. The latest version of rapid web application development platform comes with a set of advanced features to meet the latest technological trends. Along with support for HTML 5 and RESTful web services, the updated version also comes with language enhancements and enhanced security. Also, a business has options to choose from the standard, enterprise and developer editions of the platforms. Along with developing powerful, dynamic and interactive websites and rich internet applications, ColdFusion 10 also allows users to develop a variety of reports.

As reports have becomes an integral part of decision making and project management, each company can avail several benefits by using the right report development service. An organization also has option to outsource the report development service to avail a number of additional advantages. In addition to reducing operational expenses, the outsourcing of ColdFusion reporting services will further help a company in concentrating on its core business processes. As a business has options to choose from many ColdFusion development service providers, it becomes easier to find a developer who is trained, experiences and reliable.

Advantages of Outsourcing ColdFusion Reports Development Services

1. Advantages of ColdFusion 10: ColdFusion 10 comes with a set of features that make it easier for users to develop a variety of reports. The Report Builder can be used to create banded reports that include individual bands or horizontal sections for each part of a printed report. Along with creating report definitions, the stand-alone application can further interact seamlessly with the ColdFusion server. But often a business has to change its existing system and infrastructure to migrate to an advanced application development platform. One can still avail the advantage of ColdFusion, without making any substantial changes, simply by outsourcing the report development project.

2. High Quality and Customized Service: Each business uses a wide variety of repots. Some reports are designed to monitor the status of a project, whereas others are designed to help management in taking key decisions. But each report must be created using the most relevant and updated information, regardless of the types of user it targets. At the same time, a business also needs to adopt a reporting system that is customized to fit its business model and workflow. Many ColdFusion developers offer customized report development service to meet their clients’ specific requirements. So you can easily avail customized as well as efficient services without deploying any in-house developers.

3. Easy to Incorporate Changes: The frequent changes in the choices of customers have made it essential for companies to adopt flexible work flow. Most companies also regularly incorporate changes to optimize their processes. As reports are used for taking important decisions, each organization looks for flexible and customized report development services. When a process is outsourced, the outsourcing company can simply ask the service provider to incorporate changes, without investing in additional systems and requirements. The service providers also want to keep clients happy by incorporating the changes suggested by them with immediate effect.

4. Reduced Operational Cost: The ongoing recessional phase of the economy has made it essential for businesses to keep project development costs under control. When a company decides to migrate to ColdFusion 10, it has to invest in recruiting experienced developers. Also, it has to incur additional expenses to develop the right environment and infrastructure. But a business can easily avail the advantages of ColdFusion report development by hiring an offshore company. Along with saving the salary and taxes payable to a regular employee, the outsourcing will further help in not buying the systems and equipments. At the same time, a business can also concentrate on its core processes to increase its revenues and profits. The regular reports received from service providers will make it easier to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of its report development service.

A business can avail several benefits by outsourcing ColdFusion web development services. But it is also important for a company to understand the risk associated with exposing its confidential data. So an organization must hire a ColdFusion developer only after evaluating its experience, expertise, skills along with past track record and reputation.

We provide ColdFusion application development services. If you would like to talk to one of our certified ColdFusion programmers, please get in touch with us at Mindfire Solutions.