Ack! Yes, this part of the discussion changes things.
On the "It's Still Irrelevant" side:
Because of problematic implementations between the various Java Virtual Machines, there's been some backlash against Java among high-end developers. "Write Once, Debug Everywhere" sucks. I see larger corporate sites replacing their java applets with other forms of dynamic content specifically for this reason (Bay Networks is one example).
On the "It's Important, Dude!" side:
Still, java remains a very hot 'buzzword', and middle-tier/low-end developers are using it more. <bleh> The PGRX thingie you showed me is a recent example: 3dshopping.com Sites like these are popping up everyday because the crazed net craze.
Also, Java's 'problems' may be going away if JVM standardization really happens. Recently, Netscape and Microsoft agreed to standardize on Apple's MRJ for Java going forward (for Mac browsers). Obviously, this doesn't solve everything, but it's a step. And when Java turns into the 'write-once, play everywhere' thing it was supposed to be, this will be a very serious issue for SRCM.
If their 'VM' thingie is real and has a good dev team, they already know this and will figure out a solution. If it isn't, and they aren't, look out below.
Since I still can't find any serious info on their 'VM' thingie, this is still a trading marble to shoot around the pinball machine; not a serious long investment, IMO. |
