Setup Builder

In order to properly deliver a product, regardless of type, you need to wrap it in a visually appealing package. The same goes for computer programs, with the installer being responsible for a proper deployment so you can easily enjoy the set of features. Normally, programming knowledge is required to create a setup package, but applications like Setup Builder want to make the whole process a lot easier.

On the visual side of things, the application comes with an interface that seems pulled from the last decade, but this is only to keep things simple, which is an advantage, considering it's packed with an abundance of features. You get to work with multiple sets of windows, each holding a specific tool that is brought up upon access. The toolbar is responsible for providing quick triggers for most functions and project elements.

Before anything can be done, you need to specify the files you want to pack in the installer. Although drag and drop is not supported, it's pretty easy to work with the built-in explorer. All elements are displayed in a list, along with various details. Items can be accessed individually in order to have attributes modified, with fields for comments, icons, text, additional parameters, and more.

Truth be told, you need a considerable amount of time to fully configure the installer. You don't have to go through all steps, but the application comes bundled with tools to include third party components, VB project elements, custom scripts, messages, custom folders, registry key entries and INI files, ODBC configurations, user defined code, uninstaller component, and a lot more.

Programmers get to put knowledge to good use by importing different scripts or creating them on the spot, for enhanced features and functionality. Building the project is done at the press of a button, but take caution not to save to a destination where other files exist, otherwise they are removed.

Bottom line is that Setup Builder is one of the tools programmers need to keep around to create thorough, powerful and comprehensive guides for successfully deploying new products. Be prepared for some accommodation time, because of the rather rough interface, but once you get the hang of it, the deployment package fully reflects your options.