>The point isn't faster development. The point is faster and easier maintenance. That's were the bulk of the time (read cost) connected with almost any system is.

Do well designed systems usually require maintenance? When was the last time a microsoft engineer came on site to perform maintenance on Word97?
Okay come back with SR2! Maybe we're talking from different perspectives. Commercial software development vs contract programing. The dream is to develop that copyright that will retire you to Maui while you can still enjoy it. You can do that with VFP!! You can write a book or two and do Okay. I appologize. You're right.