GenerateGUIforCLI

A lightweight tool to generate user-friendly GUIs for command-line applications (CLI) using JSON-based configurations. Perfect for users who prefer graphical interfaces over terminal commands.

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Features

• Convert CLI arguments into intuitive GUI forms (checkboxes, dropdowns, file pickers).
• JSON-driven configuration — describe CLI parameters once, reuse forever.
• Run applications directly from the GUI (NW.js/HTA only).

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Quick Start

1. Installation

Download and unzip a copy of the entire repository.

2. Running the Tool

Choose one of these methods:

Method	Requirements	Launch Command
NW.js	Install NW.js	nw C:\Path\to\app where 'C:\Path\to\app' is a directory where GenerateGUIforCLI is located.
HTA	Windows only	Double-click generateGUIforCLI.hta
Browser	Any modern browser	Open generateGUIforCLI.html (limited functionality)

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How to Use

Step 1: Prepare a JSON Configuration

Create a JSON file describing your CLI app’s arguments. Follow the JSON Schema or use a pre-made configuration from a trusted source (e.g., community repositories or official tool documentation).

Step 2: Load the JSON File

1. Open the tool (NW.js/HTA/browser).
2. Click "Path to CLI arguments description" and select your JSON file.
3. The GUI will auto-generate input fields based on the JSON.

Step 3: Generate and Execute

1. Fill in the GUI fields.
2. Click "Generate Command Line" to preview the CLI command.
3. (NW.js/HTA only):
   • Specify the executable path.
   • Click "Execute" to run the CLI app with your parameters.

• ⚠️ Security Note: Before executing, always verify the generated command in the text field. Proceed only if you:
  • Understand exactly what the command does.
  • Confirm it matches your intent (e.g., no unexpected file deletions or risky operations).

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JSON Editors

Use these tools to create/edit JSON configurations:

• JSON Editor Online
• VS Code with JSON Schema

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FAQ

Where do I get CLI argument descriptions?

You can obtain CLI argument details through:

1. Built-in help (run in terminal):

   your_app --help    # Most Unix tools
   your_app /?       # Common on Windows

2. Official documentation:
   Check the application’s:
   • Official website
   • Source repository (e.g., GitHub README.md or man pages)

Why can’t I execute apps in the browser?

Browsers are designed to display web pages, not to execute arbitrary executable files like .exe. Use NW.js or HTA for full functionality.