JSR for Java 7 and Java 8 approved ! :-(

Here is a good article covering the mood of the JCP process. Apache and Google voted NO. Others complained and voted YES. It looks gloomy thinking what Oracle is going to do to Java. Its time to learn the next programming language Python or Ruby guys and gals.

Oracle tinkering with the Java licensing could mean many companies will think twice before using Java going forward. Atleast ISVs, as the majority do not wants to pay Oracle for the application server JVM and the database. Oracle Database is just great.... Otherwise it is like getting charged an arm and a leg:-)

This along with the nature of today's programming being more of building Web Applications, brings other compelling reasons on why users need to learn other programming languages. Ruby (Ruby On Rails) or Python could be good options to shift to. The new generation programming languages bring in more cool features (that improve developer productivity) that are lacking in Java.

Richness Vs Simplicity in Products

Richness is a great feature for your product. If your product is rich in capabilities, then it will have all the options 90% of users will ever need. However you may end up building a product (say user interface) that is hard to use, because of the plethora of options you have added.

Simple products have lesser features. It will be just good enough for many, to derive a business case out of it. It can sell better on its own, without much training. This is great if your goal is to just enjoy the journey of building products.

While building products you can decide whether you want to tilt towards richness or simplicity of the product.

If your goal is to sell software with no fuss, no sales people, then, "Less is more" may be a good strategy.

Companies may choose to keep products simple so that they can reduce support and training cost and enjoy the fruits of higher productivity in their organizations.