>>I tested JDeveloper few years back. It was great for manipulating oracle database but debuging is much worse that debuging VFP wizzard classes.
>>
>>I believe Oracle is concentrating on APEX (Oracle Application Express) instead. It is a free tool but in Oracle you pay arm and leg for the database. I am looking at a quote as I type. I see 6 figures on the quote.
>>
>>http://www.oracle.com/technology/products/database/application_express/index.html
>>
>>We are using APEX 2 and it is great RAD tool to work with Oracle database.
>>
>>Mo
>
>I have been reading this thread with great interest;
>It seem that I will have to take Oracle road. Right now, after almost 20 years with xbase (10 with VFP) I feel again like begginer.
>
>I hv two years aproximately to get on with Oracle administration/development.
>I can/will of course use VFP as frontend for period of years, but
>I want (have) to get proficient with Oracle administration/management and later with their development tools as well.
>
>Any toughts/info/links on good books, training, transition strategy are
>highly appreciated.
>
>TIA

As for the database, I suggest taking a DBA course that prepare you for certification. I took a 3 weeks full time course, 8 years ago but never worked as DBA (only as part time), I stayed with VFP because my company needed a VFP developer. After taking such as course, you will have clear idea why there are many DBA positions.

I don't think you should have a problem picking up Oracle SQL syntax.

Now, we are re-writing our application with Java-Oracle.

As for Oracle web tools, I like APEX. I heard that Oracle re-writing their web sites using APEX. But, I think you have to learn whatever your using.

I believe AskTom website is written in APEX
http://asktom.oracle.com/pls/asktom