> Has C++ been a boon or a fiasco in saving labor time since
 > it's inception?
A boon, I'm sure.
OOP certainly reduces development time, and makes code a lot more manageable. 
Life would be hell without it.
 > How long has C++ been around as an 'accepted'
 > language for project work?  Since 1992 - I am not sure.
Well C++ is becoming more of the standard now. Even games like Quake use it. 
It's use in industry is certainly becoming visable, with plain 'C'becoming 
too archaic and cost effective. I think a lot of companies recognise the 
benefits of C++ now.
 > C++ hung it's promise of saving programmers labor time on the
 > eventual 'resuseability' of C++ code.  Has this promise been met
 > thus far?
Yes.
 > Have you personally witnessed the fullfillment of this
 > promise?
Yes.
 > I would like to hear your experiences - and your opinions
 > on this matter.
I now have over... well, let's just say it's a Lot of reusable code, that use 
on every project. Also, C++ run-time polymorhism is essential to my code, 
especially for creating things like device drivers.
 > Another matter that concerns me is what will happen to this promise
 > of reuseability of C++ code if Java becomes the language of the
 > future - in a year or so?
Nae chance.
Java will Not be the only language in the future, certainly, at least, not in 
a year. Java is only really a gimmick at the moment, and it'll probably stay 
that way for quite some time yet. Anyway, real code (as opposed to this 
'virtual machine' nonsense) will always be needed.
 > Will C++
 > be relegated to the back burners - being used merely for
 > 'maintainenance' as has happended to so many past languages like
 > Cobol, RPG, PL-1, 'C'(???), etc?
Definately not, C++ will always be needed for things like OS development, and 
powerful programs like 3D raytracers and Databases.
 > If so, if C++/Windows/UNIX types are lured into doing Cobol and RPG
 > programming what will happen to C++ for the next 2.5 years till the
 > year 2,000 is past us?
Well it'll probably mean that C++ programmers come in increasing demand. Then 
again, after 2000 we won't have to worry about pay, cause we'll all be owed 
pay from Jan 1st 1980 anyway :)
 > What about Java?  How will it impact job demand for programmers with
 > C++ skills?  When?
C++ skills are essential for Java.
 > Will thos former C++ programmers now lured into doing Cobol and RPG
 > for the next 2.5 years being willing or able to re-enter a C++ market
 > after the year 2,000?
If they really want to... yes.
 > What will the C++ market look like after the
 > year 2,000 - as compared to Java at that time?
Java Will Not be the main language, even in 2000.
 > What will happen to network and database development during the next
 > 2.5 years - and after?
It will remain C++, but have an added amount of ODBC, SQL and stuff like 
at.
Have Fun - Kev
Kevin Campbell
E-Mail: Sysop@Deimos.unmanned.co.uk
Sysop of Deimos BBS
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