.Net Program with both WinForm and Console Interfaces

Question

I have a simple question and I'm sure it's been answered, but I can't seem to find the solution I'm looking for.

My basic question is that I've created a console app in .Net that runs automatically on a task scheduler every day, but now my clients also want a windows form-based interface that they can use to run special runs (they use the GUI to specify a few parameters - such as specific dates, etc - to make the program run a bit differently).

The way I thought to do this would be to convert my console app to a WinForm solution and to include Command Line Arguments for when I wanted it to run as the original console app with defaults, but I'm thinking that's not the right way since it would still involve a form load.

My other thought was to convert the "engine" part to a DLL and to make 2 executables - One a console app and one a winforms app, but I'm not sure if that's right either / could lead to more maintenance.

What is the correct way to do this?

I'm writing this in VB, but am equally comfortable with C# solutions if that is easier for you.

Thanks!!

Answer 1

Typically, I'd split the logic into a library, then make a simple console app and a simple Forms app to call into the logic in the library.

You can then distribute these separately and use them as they are intended, without duplication of code.