>>>>>. SQL server - I definitely prefer .NET
>>>>>
>>>>>Using the EF? ;-)
>>>>
>>>>What is the EF ?
>>>
>>>Entity Framework. It's the .NET data direction Microsoft is emphasizing now.
>>
>>I always let the pioneers catch the arrows <s> I pay Microfour to protect me from Microsoft trying to use me as a beta tester. <g>
>
>Oddly enough, my new client is using it in the ongoing .NET rewrite of their core systems. The guy I report to said of the rewrite group, somewhat wistfully, "They are going with all the latest."
>
>I do understand the term bleeding edge but you have to admit it's a pretty exciting place to be if you have the luxury of living in a paid-for technology bubble.
>
>They all have dual monitor setups, too, large ones. Very seductive.

AFAIK, EF is a prime example of a 1.0 Microsoft release. I think one would be better served looking at nHibernate. That's the direction I'm starting to move, once I get the time.