>>I just want to 'hear' general comments comparing theses tools.
>
>The ability to compile for both Linux and Windows platforms could be handy sometimes.


Evan,

You've been taking something of a beating here... <g>

I like Delphi, though I don't say I'm a Delphi programmer.. I have a buddy who only programs in Delphi and he makes a very good living at it.

There are several issues I see here and I'll just put the list out and maybe some other folks will add to it.

Pro
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1. Speed on the desktop - No doubt that Delphi is quick.

2. A true EXE - Not as big a deal as it once used to be but it is important IMO.

3. Great reporting tools. Much better than VFPs.

4. Multiple data engine capability. This is a flexibility I'd like to see in VFP but we'd give up some speed.

5. You can access both CORBA and COM objects. Not many will find this useful but it is IMO important enough to mention.

5a. (See above) Here's a scenario I find attractive: SQL backend, COM (VB, VFP, Delphi, etc) middle tier and Delphi front end. Speed on the desktop, speed in between and speed (some) and security on the back end.

6. The possibility of having a front end on Linux with perhaps a Linux-based COM middle tier server is very attractive to me. This would be a cool "bridge' for VFP programmers to open up all the Linux market for us..

CON
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1. Borland.

2. Borland.

3. Borland. <g>

4. Will the product survive? I think it will but who knows? Look at dBASE.. Ugh.

5. It is technically a great product but needs a real dose of marketing.


Best,

DD