Is it possible to take a half done web application that has been started using VB.NET and continue using C#

Question

A guy came to me there recently with a half done web app that has been created using VB.NET, nothing major, just a normal site. His original programmer couldn't continue so he wants me to finish it. Problem is I don't program using VB.NET nor have I any intention of learning it for a project this small. Usually I would run from something like this but I need the cash. Should I take the project and continue it using C# or just leave it. Has anyone had a similar experience and how did it turn out.

Answer 1

You can also just bite the bullet and finish it in VB.NET. This way you don't have to worry about the vagaries of conversion or managing a codebase of multiple languages. I know it might not sound palatable but the jump to VB from C# isn't that tough, or even much of a jump.

NOTE: Etymology link added for folks who might not be familiar with the "bite the bullet" idiom.

Answer 2

It can be done, yes. That doesn't mean it will be pretty.

You have two options (as I see it):

1. Convert the existing code from VB.NET to C# and then complete the application (leaving you with a 100% C# code base).

2. Migrate the VB.NET logic into a seperate assembly. You can then build that assembly seperate from your C# code and include it as a reference for everything else.

Either way there is probably going to be a good deal of work involved.