A computer-implemented Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for use in constructing a multi-tier business application for a multiple tier computer network. The IDE is used to create and maintain the multi-tier business application quickly and easily on the multiple tier computer network. The IDE includes a Topological Multi-Tier Business Application Composer and associated Meta-model, wherein the Composer allows the developer to graphically design, develop, maintain, build, test, debug, and deploy the multi-tier business application and the graphical representation of the multi-tier business application is then persistently stored in the Meta-model The IDE also includes an Interactive Agent that monitors the Meta-model for an occurrence of a specific event and then triggers the display of a dialog box or other graphical element in the user interface of the IDE to interact with the developer by displaying context information comprising a list of suggested and recommended actions that advance the creation of the multi-tier business application.