Re: Java and RPG in the future of the iSeries

Joe,

Broadly speaking, we need to consider the mutually beneficial relationship
the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) and the Native Virtual Machine (NVM) share on
the iSeries.  My feeling is that it wouldn't be in the best interest of the
platform to replace one with the other, or to let one decay and die.

The JVM and NVM are like two sides of one house, with a corridor linking
them.  On several people's wish lists we hear about needs to enhance and
streamline the corridor linking both sides of the house.  Often, the
difficulty of implementing such interfaces underscores the distinctiveness
of the two (2) runtime environments.

Java relies heavily on native interfaces for database access, and other
services.  The native environment relies heavily on Java to attract new
developers and applications to the platform.  Both sides benefit from the
other.  Arguments over which language is better for what purpose may be
useful when civil, but break down the symbiotic relationship when they turn
uncivil.

IBM generally uses C to enhance and extend the native environment, but most
other developers use RPG.  So RPG will probably be needed and supported so
long as the Native Virtual Machine is supported.  Actually, without the
Native Virtual Machine, Java would be pretty much useless on the iSeries.
Hopefully, this is clear to IBM, and should be more clear to the developer
community too.

Developers who insist on platform independence are the one crying the
loudest for RPG's demise, but in so doing they're effectively calling for
the demise of the iSeries as well.  I'm not sure they realize this.  Then
again, they probably don't care.

I believe Java will progress more rapidly, when integrating with, as opposed
to assimilating all native capabilities.  I feel sorry for developers and
users who insist on wholesale platform assimilation, and feel sick about the
waste of such an effort.

Nathan.


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message: 8
date: Fri, 9 Jul 2004 17:28:12 -0500
from: "Joe Pluta" <joepluta@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
subject: Java and RPG in the future of the iSeries

People sometimes express surprise that this list doesn't always praise Java
as the perfect solution for everything.  There seems to be a certain
animosity that arises whenever I or anyone suggests RPG as a viable choice
for... well, for just about anything.  And while this list does center on
Java, it's reason for being is to support iSeries developers, and that means
how Java works on and with the iSeries.

 

Because I want to be clear that RPG is and continues to be a fundamental
part of IBM's iSeries strategy.  The rumors of RPG's demise have been
greatly exaggerated.  I just got off the phone today with Kelly Schmotzer,
and she was adamant (I mean, almost to the point of getting
angry!) that RPG is the key strength of the iSeries.  She also was clear to
me that IBM's "road map" is not a path that they expect or even want
everyone to follow; instead, it's a view of the broad spectrum of options
available.

 

Anybody who thinks that IBM is suggesting that RPG is going to go away or
that Java is IBM's direction for the iSeries, now is a good time to let me
know why you think that.  I'll then see about getting you answers from the
appropriate people at IBM.  I'm currently tracking down someone to get some
more definitive answers on the "road map", but if you have other issues
please bring them to me and I'll see if I can't get some answers.

 

Joe