We have had a web-based tax return system running for years. Actually it is used not only for anual tax returns, but also for filing VAT statements, checking out your status as a tax-paying citizen (or company), etc. It works really well most of the time. It was done right from the beginning in Java, so it is fully compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac.
Making something like this WIndows-only is actually, er, stupid. The alternative is usable, proven, and in the long run less expensive.
Perhaps the dialogue in the Aussie tax department would have been something like:
- Er, we need to put this on the web. What about using java so everybody can use it?
- Java is BAD. MS rules. Nevermind freedom of choice, Bill deserves his money!! Screw the tax payer!!! YEAH BABY!!!! (evil laugh).
We have had a web-based tax return system running for years. Actually it is used not only for anual tax returns, but also for filing VAT statements, checking out your status as a tax-paying citizen (or company), etc. It works really well most of the time. It was done right from the beginning in Java, so it is fully compatible with Windows, Linux, and Mac.
Making something like this WIndows-only is actually, er, stupid. The alternative is usable, proven, and in the long run less expensive. Perhaps the dialogue in the Aussie tax department would have been something like:
- Er, we need to put this on the web. What about using java so everybody can use it?
- Java is BAD. MS rules. Nevermind freedom of choice, Bill deserves his money!! Screw the tax payer!!! YEAH BABY!!!! (evil laugh).