[Zope] Linux/Redhat advice : RPMs vs Src for Zope development ?

[alexander smishlajev]

chas wrote:
> 
> I find myself finally having to embrace that OS which is
> fast becoming the Microsoft of the linux world - Redhat.

<grin>

> Coming from a FreeBSD background, I trust it won't be
> too much of a culture shock but have one question in
> particular :
> 
> On FreeBSD, we have 'packages' and 'ports' which make
> installation of software quite easy. I notice that linux
> has its RPM's which are even more extensive - going down
> to the Zope product level in some cases.

i also came to RedHat-based linux (BlackCat) having FreeBD background,
and i miss the ports collection very much.

> would you use the RPMs or go with src ?

in most cases, i prefer to fetch (or make myself) the source rpm, and
build binary rpms on my computer.  this gives me the better chance that
the package is built with right libraries (which is not always the case
for binaries packed elsewhere), and allows to remove/upgrade the package
more easily and to share the binaries with my colleagues.

best wishes,
alex.