Adobe Flex is a cross-platform, based on Macromedia flash software, comprehensive, development framework, an application development tool and solution for developing and delivering Rich Internet Applications (RIAs) within an enterprise and across the web to improve interactivity of the web. Applications created using flex are highly expressive, of high-performance and are compatible with all operating system and web browsers. Flex programmers, flex developers can download the free Flex SDK available online to work with Flex applications.

Programmers and developers are innovating new things to impart interactivity to the internet based applications similar to the desktop applications. Usability of desktop applications sets it as the first choice for consumers. For consumer centric, business-centric internet applications business models are still not so flexible to provide the same degree of usability to the users as desktop application. Poor client-server interactivity has resulted in poor transaction and loss of leads and traffics in between because of poor connectivity and transaction. Web deployable paradigm has shortened the SDLC but emerging online communities are looking for better usability of desktop application and responsiveness of client-server applications.

Flex architecture includes following components:

Adobe Flex Builder - Flex applications can be created using flex builder. It is an integrated development environment for RIAs that combines richness, interactivity, usability of desktop applications with the cross-platform reach of adobe engagement platform. Client side logic can be easily built using flex that can be easily integrated with LiveCycle solutions, XML, web services. Rich interface can be created using design tools.

Adobe Flex Charting - Rich library of interactive charts and graphs render data dashboards and interactive data analysis. Flex unique model and components makes possible to add interactivity like rollover and drill-down. Added functionalities can also be provided using base class and customize the chart types.

Adobe LiveCycle Data Services ES - This provides a complete set of data enabling features in Flex or Ajax based RIAs for better user experience. A powerful data services architecture and programming model enable RIAs to synchronize data between client and server to produce optimal customer engagement experiences with less code, less risk, and faster time to market. LiveCycle Data Services ES also opens up powerful new services to rich applications including document and form server processing, workflow, and more