There are many tools out there for developers and I’ll probably write some more later about some ORM tools I use often and that save a ton of time. This article is about a more generic tool, something that can help you no matter what kind of code you’re writing. These are productivity tools and/or code generators.

A good tool in this area does at least the following:

• Helps identify code mistakes
• Supports code block templates
• Lots of refactoring support
• A good deal of syntax high lighting, i.e. code blocks, braces, line numbers etc.

Again this isn’t a tool you’re going to find for free. They take a great deal of time and research to develop so be prepared to spend a little. I’d say anything priced from $150-$250 is about average.

Below I have listed two tools both from the same company. The first called “Refactor!Pro” is a great tool however it is included in the more advanced product called “CodeRush” both from DevExpress.

Although Refactor!Pro is only $99 it is well worth the extra $150 to get the full product. This tool is incredible and you’ll discover even in the first day of usage that it can save you a ton of time. The ability to create your own templates which change depending on the code you’re editing is awesome. I picked this over competitive products primarily for 1. Their support and other product lines and 2. Their integration with the keyboard and keyboard shortcuts was just the easiest to use.

Don’t forget, you must learn to use these tools. If you get one and don’t bother to learn the shortcuts or how the templates work then you’re just wasting your money. See some juicy screen shots belows.

As usual you can get a nice long trial, so give it a go!

-c