the~first byte is:

A Program Manager

the~first byte is a form based user interface that manages the flow of
input and output data between the user and a third party executable
program. 


Form Based Data Entry

the~first byte interface comprises user defined screen forms. These forms
can be formatted to allow data to be entered in specified fields on the
form, the data is parsed, saved and made available for read access by a
third party executable program associated with the form. 


Context Sensitive Help and Data Parsing

Data fields on a user form can have context sensitive help and properties
(dimensional quantities, maximum and minimum values) associated with each
data field.  the~first byte runs the executable program associated with the
form and subsequently manages (paginate, file and print) the output data.


Reduces Development Time

the~first byte allows the program developer to produce a robust application
very quickly. Typically 70-80% of development time might be devoted to the
coding of a reliable user interface and ensuring data input integrity. 
the~first byte takes care of this 70-80% factor, leaving the developer to
concentrate on the program application.


Upgrades Existing DOS Applications

the~first byte can interface with any pre-compiled software application 
(C, C++, Fortran, Pascal, Basic, etc.).  Existing applications can be simply
modified to run under the~first byte.