The only chapter I would have benefited from more development was the one on turning 4D into a Web server. The authors cover both 4Dv6's built-in Web features and having a Web server application communicate with 4D via CGI software. I would have liked more examples of a Web site written entirely in 4Dv6. The book points out the need to balance conflicting goals such as speed versus hard disk usage. Following a strict normalization plan will save on disk space but can hurt speed.
Enough information is provided about conflicting goals to help the programmer make good decisions.
The authors always aim toward making the system as good as possible for the user and recommend a user-centered approach for resolving conflicts. Some of the most valuable sections cover the use of summary data and issues involving data accuracy. While presented in the context of 4D's development system, this information is valuable to all database programs. The emphasis is on how to build the best system for your clients. Adams and Beckett understand that not one size fits all.