Maybe nobody said it (or nobody wants to attract flames) but the PortableApps folder structure is unnecessary complicated. I see absolutely no reason for so many subfolders, some of which enter the App space itself. It can all be made much simpler.
- Why would I need a separate launcher app? Most of apps can be launched without a separate launcher program. If necessary, a simple symbolic link (shortcut) would suffice. And if it doesn't suffice, then a launcher can be specified in the special ini file.
- Why would I have obligatory subfolders inside my application folder? The app is a separate unit. If the Launcher or PAF Menu require extra data, let this data be in their own folder.
- "DefaultData"? Is this folder obligatory? What if the app doesn't have DefaultData?
- "Other" folder? Does it really have to exist? Why would the app keep its help files in some external folder, when most apps have their own Help subfolder in the App folder? For what reason does everything have to be rearranged?
Here's my suggestion of a simplified directory structure:
+ PortableAppName (the outer folder)
---- AppBin (all binaries and other stuff except settings)
---- AppData (app settings)
---- PAF (all files and folders required by PAF Menu)
This is what developers expect. It would simplify design, and require minimum changes to switch apps from ZIP to PAF. No unnecessary complications. I'm telling you this with best intentions in mind.