Re: Goodbye/400

From: Nathan M. Andelin <nandelin@relational-data.com>
> From: "Leif Svalgaard" <leif@leif.org>
> > Once we all run linux and no green screens anymore,
> > there won't be enough difference between the two series
> > to warrant having two of them.
>
> One problem with that analysis is that the iSeries is defined primarily by
> software, not hardware.  That software includes multiple layers, including
> applications.  Besides, when will "technology independence", "single-level
> store", "object-based design", and "integration" become obsolete.  If those
> design principles become irrelevant at some point, then OS/400 will become
> irrelevant too.  But I don't see that happening.

1) technology independence:  when we all run linux and use C (or Java or
COBOL)
TI is not needed because the world is defined "primarily by software".
2) single-level store: is not where we are headed. Does PASE support SLS?
SLS is actually a huge security risk (I have a program that can show any part
of
the SLS).
3) object-based design does not benefit the user because he cannot
define his own object types.
4) integration is too vague to mean anything. Maybe you just mean "inclusive"
like in the database is built in, all languages are supported, ...

>
> It seems to me that IBM is sending the message that they are in the
business
> of selling INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS AND SERVICES.  So rather than emphasize the
> distinctiveness of iSeries and OS/400, IBM emphasizes middleware that ties
> all platforms together.

If the platforms become irrelevant, the more reason to consolidate them.

>
> Since my product is OS/400 specific, I don't like it.  But I haven't
reached
> the conclusion that IBM is against OS/400.  I think they recognize a
> distinctive OS/400 market, but feel compelled to walk the slender fence
> between all their platforms.
>

problem is that OS/400 makes money, especially the CFINT tax.
It is hard to drop something making money which is why the AS400
is still around. As IBM strives to produce "linux-only" solutions to be
price competitive, OS/400 will bring in less money and this will
weaken the rationale for having it around.