Item: Microsoft Visual Studio Code
Rating: 8
Author: Shion Song

Use Cases and Deployment Scope

Microsoft [Visual Studio] Code is a featured-packed code editor that works with many different languages and has the flexibility to be as extensive or as simple as needed. It is perfect for developers who often need to work with many different languages at the same time. "IntelliSense" code completion along with robust debugging tools make it easier and faster to fix errors in the code. Above all, its extensive extension library allows for integration with many different programming environments and allows for customization as you see fit. For instance, we can run Python code right inside VS Code split-screen tab without needing to open another IDE.

Pros and Cons

Incredible tabbed window management that allows grid-based split screen
Application functionality can be expanded through many different extensions/plugins available
Decently fast and easy to use
Themes are customizable to liking

Some plugins/extensions that are available can cause stability issues especially if they are installed together
Extension management can sometimes get complicated
The app does from time to time consume more resources than necessary but a restart usually fixes it

Most Important Features

Cross-code compatibility
Code completion features allows easy access to previously used variable names and functions. Functions can also be documented and its available parameters made available to the calling code block via a hover UI
Actively developed that is also backed by a community of developers adding new functionality through extensions
No upfront/monthly costs
Line by line debugging allows for tracking data structures and variables

Return on Investment

VScode saves a lot of development time via code completion and highlighting of syntax issues
Easier debugging experiences lead to time saved as problems can be corrected much earlier in the development process

Alternatives Considered

Adobe Dreamweaver and Notepad++

[Microsoft Visual Studio Code] builds on the simplicity and speed of Notepad++ yet remains very customizable and offers features that are comparable and often go beyond other paid offerings such as Dreamweaver CC. It also requires no upfront/subscription so there's no risk in trying the platform. [Microsoft Visual Studio Code] is also backed by a large community that is constantly adding new functionality

Key Insights

Do you think Microsoft Visual Studio Code delivers good value for the price?

Yes

Are you happy with Microsoft Visual Studio Code's feature set?

Yes

Did Microsoft Visual Studio Code live up to sales and marketing promises?

Yes

Did implementation of Microsoft Visual Studio Code go as expected?

Yes

Would you buy Microsoft Visual Studio Code again?

Yes

Other Software Used

OneNote, Acronis True Image, Adobe PhotoShop, FileZilla, VMware Fusion, RStudio, Dropbox

Likelihood to Recommend

[Microsoft] Visual Studio Code is perfect for those who need a little more than notepad++/barebones text editors but also don't need the bloat that comes from pricier alternatives such as dreamweaver CC.
[Microsoft Visual Studio Code] is also perfect for web developers as they are more likely to be working within different programming environments at the same time. With VS Code, it is possible organize all of your code (JS, HTML, CSS, PHP, etc) all in a single window by making use of its docking features. It is also free so smaller businesses can benefit from no upfront licensing costs. There is however a bit of a learning curve for those interested in making use of its extension library to add functionality. These extensions can cause issues or cause the app to run slow if they are not of good quality/out of date

Visually appealing but also extensively extendable. VSCode offers the simplicity of notepad but with tons of quality of life enhancements

Overall Satisfaction with Microsoft Visual Studio Code