Save Data to the Best Locations

[This is preliminary documentation and subject to change.]

One cause of confusion and frustration for users is the difficulty of locating files and programs on their computers. The following guidelines relate to installing programs and saving data in locations that minimize such confusion and frustration:

General

• Install applications in the \Program Files folder. (Required)
• Do not install executables or DLLs in the root directory. (Required)
• Separate user data from application bits. (Required)
• Query the registry for folder names. (Required)
• Store user data under the user's Profile folder. (Recommended)
• Do not assume that profile settings have been initialized. (Recommended)

Avoid DLL Versioning Problems

• Do not write to Windows system folders. (Recommended)
• Use Microsoft update packs to upgrade system components. (Recommended)
• Do not install globally shared DLLs. (Recommended)