I have inherited a application framework from the previous developer where I now work. This framework utilizes multiple parent/child relationships. In many instances parent/parent/child occur. I asked why he WASN'T using MDI and he stated that years ago, when he had started, MDI had major shortcomings concerning the previously stated relationship scenarios. Particularly with the multiple Parents.
My actual questions are; Does MDI still have these shortcomings? & Those of you who have worked with MDI, what problems did you have and how did you overcome them?
Thank You!
One problem with MDI interfaces is that you can't register unlimited Window's within your MDI Containers anyway (see This Microsoft KB item). Thought i posted that up because i've seen many MDI applications hit that error when its heavily used.
I generally like an SDI Interface and make it share the same controls and windows over multiple instances of 'something' instead of spawning a new Window for each instance of 'something'.
I dont know the specifics of the programs interface but i've yet to find something that couldnt be reworked to an SDI interface and some modal dialogs (if really needed).