Building a GUI for a small desktop application

Question

I am currently working on a small desktop Java application which will track various data such as employee hours, job-site investment, and a few other things. So far I've been able to knock out most of the stuff under the hood (serializing data, etc) but I've hit a roadblock when it comes to the front-end.

I've tried using swing: by hand, with eclipse/windowbuilder pro, and with netbeans, all with little success. Is there another platform better suited to such a simple application? Maybe JavaFX? Or should I just roll up my sleeves and dive into swing?

Thanks

Answer 1

For a small application I'd suggest you to roll up your sleeves and dive into Swing. At least you can study a lot. When you have questions come to SO, clear 'em and move forward.

Answer 2

If you don't like swing you may try swt. Eclipse UI is based on it. Take a look at the FAQ which would give you the answers.

Answer 3

Personally, I think the future of the Java Desktop is with JavaFX. If you've got to dig in somewhere that could be your best bet. OTOH, Swing won't be going away soon; the tools are better; and there's probably more in the way of tutorials etc...