Some comparison shopping on development tools availability and cost
Cost of using IBMs Developer Works = connect time, available software=most
Cost of DVD with latest IBM development software with no time outs = 0
Time limits on software = 0, updates=must download, limits to deployment =yes
Cost of using Microsofts Technet Plus = $559US/year rises to $799, extra cost for Europe, Asia, Africa
Cost of DVD with latest Microsoft development software with no time outs = covered in subscription
Time limits on software = 0, updates=new DVD per quarter, limits to deployment =yes
Cost of using Oracles TechNetwork= connect time, available software=all
Cost of DVD with some of latest Oracle development software with no timeouts = 0
Time limits on software = 0, updates=must download, limits to deployment =yes
(c)Country Bumpkin 2005