Hi,
 
At our company we are checking out some development platforms (must be crossplatform) we will going to use in the near future. Our list of platforms is (PHP, JSP, ZOPE / Python, J2EE - Java). Our company focuses itself mostly to webdevelopment for educational purposes.
 
I proposed Zope to be included in this list because i believe it is a good, stable and innovative platform to use although still new to many. Because of my proposal and familiarity of Zope, i was selected to give a presentation which should (read MUST ;-) ) influence my colleagues so that zope will be THE development within our organisation for the future.
 
Currently there are ten points of consideration set by my boss. These are not specific to zope but for all potential platforms. It would be very helpfull if you would take some time giving me input on these considerations. I will take them in account when making the presentation.
 
Considerations:
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1. Object Orientation
 
In which ways is the language object oriented en which things are missing from the language.
 
2. Server and client objects.
 
To what extend is it possible to define and use client side objects aside from server components. e.g. Possibility to include/use special tags which automagically instantiate the correct custom control objects.
 
3. Framework
 
How diverse is the default library of Objects and methods. (Guess this is more a python thing besides the use of products)
 
4. Support
 
How / howfar is the development platform used by developers.
Is there a good knowledge base / FAQ's available.
Are there good / many  newsgroups available... ( Hmmmm, depend on response to this message  ;-) )
 
5. 3th party support
 
Are there extentional development tools available.
What kind of engines are available. ( python / zope )
Are extra components available. If so, which. ( yeah yeah, Zope product database is one)
 
6. Cost
 
What do the essential development tools cost.
What are the costs to commercially use the development platform.
 
7. Userfriendly
 
How good is the development platform.
Are all tools needed available.
Is the platform intuitive to use.
 
8. Distribution
 
What is needed to host a website using the platform. (no need to answer.. zope ??)
 
9. XML Support
 
Which tools are available.
 
10. Developer value
 
What is the value of a developer having good knowledge of the platform on the jobmarket.
 
[11]. What are other pros/cons using Zope / Python as development platform.
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So far the list. Last entry is my own.
 
Thanks in advance,
 
Daniel Hooymans
Sofware developer        www.edufocus.nl