XML vs Hardcoded interface?

YAGNI : Design your screens for the current requirements, which you specifically state aren't going to change. If a year down the line more customization is needed, make it more customizable then not now.

My feeling is that you should do whatever will give you the greater flexibility to change your mind, add new features or adjust the layout in the future.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.