MANSFIEL@EMBL.BITNET (Niall Mansfield) (05/31/87)
Summary:
We have to choose between SunWindows and X for
future development. I'm leaning towards X, but need
more detailed and informed comment, so I can make a
stronger case.
Verbose Form:
We've just got a few Suns, and are starting to do
real work on them. Undoubtedly, we will need to
choose a window system, and stick with it for a long
time. I'm sure that someone will argue we should
use the Sun system because it must be better: after
all, it cost money, whereas X is free. My own view
is that we should go for X because:
1. Free Software is a good thing in itself.
2. Free software is often good software, because its
high exposure causes most of the bugs to be found
quicker, and lots of razor sharp minds (like yours)
are constantly working on it.
3. It's networkable.
4. It's not dependent on one manufacturer who has
more or less got you captive.
In the next couple of weeks, a decision will have to
be made here, and I'd be very grateful if anybody
could give me info or comments on the issues,
whether for or against X.
Does the advent of NeWS change the perspective, as
(3) above applies to it, and if Sun licence it, then
(4) will too?
Thanks,
Nialljohn@hpljju.mit.EDU (John Uebbing) (06/01/87)
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