Re: A Dialogue

I think true "write once run anywhere" is a myth. I'm not saying you can't
get close, but I doubt you can truly achieve it.

To get close, I would consider the following:
- Use Java as your core language. It runs on virtually every platform with
little hassle. It can do a web interface and any server side code. I would
actually prefer Object Oriented PHP, but I think you will have a better time
with cross-database support using Java.

- Which leads us to the database: I would NOT try to make this a one
database fits all solution. Instead, rely on Stored Procedures to handle
all your database access. This will separate all your database access from
your application code, so you should be able to run one set of code
regardless of which database your clients are using. This will require
writing a different set of Stored Procedures for each database you intend to
support, but I don't think that is a big deal. Just make sure that each one
returns the same format and your application code won't care where it came
from.

This is a huge change from DSPF oriented RPG. You'll need to be familiar
with all the Web technologies as well as Object Oriented design and theory.
You are talking about serious, fundamental changes in how to code.