Thomas Haws wrote:
> Well, for me at least, it doesn't burst the bubble at all to speak and
> plan toward a purely local package, written perhaps in Java.
> Wards/troops are by definition local, and being online doesn't really
> offer much other than enhanced portability and centralized backup.  I
> almost feel bad competing with the likes of Troopmaster and Scoutsoft,
> but I guess that's what FLOSS does.

You could build a simple desktop application, but it would be inherently
limited.  Giving multiple people access to the same database leads to
network effects and surprisingly useful capabilities.

I can think of two architectures that could solve the access and
security breech liability problems you guys are running into.

1. Build a networked desktop application, but put the database on a web
server that can store yet not decrypt the database.  People who want to
access the database will need the decryption key, which the web server
will not have.  Even administrators of the web server will not be able
to decrypt the databases.

2. Use PDA-like synchronization.  If two people bring their laptops to a
troop meeting, they can connect and exchange updates.  The database is
never stored anywhere but on individuals' laptops and desktops.

The second architecture is appealing because it doesn't rely on a
central server.  But the first is a lot easier.

Shane

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