You know, with Python and PHP you could easily write a function that generates JavaScript function dynamically (If you cannot create such functions Modern Web Application Framework CakePHP [http://www.cakephp.org/] and Django [http://www.djangoproject.com/] can help you do that).
I believe in JAVA you could use DWR [http://getahead.org/dwr].
It's all just a matter of understanding the tools in hand.
I think Desktop application still kick-ass, but having both Desktop and Web Interface for 1 application is even better IMO.
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You know, with Python and PHP you could easily write a function that generates JavaScript function dynamically (If you cannot create such functions Modern Web Application Framework CakePHP [http://www.cakephp.org/] and Django [http://www.djangoproject.com/] can help you do that).
I believe in JAVA you could use DWR [http://getahead.org/dwr].
It's all just a matter of understanding the tools in hand.
I think Desktop application still kick-ass, but having both Desktop and Web Interface for 1 application is even better IMO.