application-framework

Possible Duplicates: What is a framework? What does it do? Why do we need a framework What is the difference between a class library and a framework Although I referred to various sources, I still can't understand the proper definition. What is meant by "application framework"? Here's a simpler answer: Application frameworks make writing applications easier . Creating applications is hard. Applications have to provide input and output which they get through operating system semantics. Modern applications are usually GUI based and a GUI app is orders of magnitude more complex than a non-GUI app

I am looking for Titanium Appcelerator alternatives for Desktop application development with HTML and JavaScript. I want to convert a web app to a desktop application. Hence, there will be a lot of server interaction. Appcelerator was a good choice, but it looks like the company is no longer interested in the Desktop SDK. Also, ajax request from Appcelerator does not retain cookies. I read that Adobe Air can be used for desktop app development, but I don't want to use flash. How good is XULRunner? Will it allow features like Growl notificaiton and creating tray icons? Will I be able to develop