Re: Why ADA is not prevalent yet?

[cis.ohio-state.edu!zaphod.mps.ohio-state.edu!caen!uvaarpa!vger.nsu.edu!g_ harrison@ucbvax.Berkeley.EDU (George C. Harrison, Norfolk State University)]

In article <10284@platypus.uofs.uofs.edu>, beidler@guinness.cs.uofs.edu (Jack B
eidler) writes:
> Sorry, I can't hesitate any longer, thought I would add my two cents to this
> discussion.  It should be pretty obvious by now that there is no one reason 
> why Ada has not taken off.  I am

[etc.]

My turn.  Although it has been mentioned re inexpensive compilers and the
problems of development and keeping up with validation, .... I claim that a
major problem is the Borland has not bought into Ada.  My students purchase
Turbo Pascal and Turbo C++ for 49.95 + $5.00 S&H each  They get a very nice
interface, fast compilation, and ease of development.  Borland advertises
everywhere.  They offer such good deals to educators that it is cheaper to
purchase a new version of their software than to pay for the upgrade.  It is
getting so that it's cheaper to purchase the software + manuals than to pirate
it and purchase Turbo <whatever> books from B. Dalton. 

I have a great deal of respect for Meridian, R&R, ALSYS, etc., but the plane
fact is that the Borland name sells.  If Borland were to become committed to 
Ada development in a big way, I think it would sell.  AND, it would be compared
with the other PC Ada brands - which might even boost their business.

Any comments???

George C. Harrison, Professor of Computer Science
Norfolk State University, 2401 Corprew Avenue, Norfolk VA 23504
Internet:  g_harrison@vger.nsu.edu    Phone:  804-683-8654