[Info-vax] IS everyone waiting?

[David Froble]

Robert A. Brooks wrote:
> On 10/21/2016 11:40 PM, David Froble wrote:
>> Simon Clubley wrote:
>>> However, if you have a support contract, and if your systems are
>>> running a supported VMS version, then you are still going to be
>>> better off than if you are running without support on an old VMS
>>> version.
>>
>> Just to set the record straight, I've always advocated using the 
>> latest version
>> of VMS.  The sole exception was V8.4, for obvious reasons, and with 
>> what was
>> distributed, I think my fears were justified.
>>
>> I've got the VSI Alpha V8.4-2 evaluation stuff running on one of my 
>> systems. And
>> I'll use the production version, if it becomes available.
> 
> The plan is to release V8.4-2L1 for Alpha early in 2017.  Support and 
> licenses are bundled, such that if you want the license, you must 
> purchase support from VSI.  The OS and layered product licenses are 
> essentially free under this model.

This is excellent news.  Those on Alpha have basically an unlimited (in time) 
support path.  VSI will have a recurring revenue model.  If there is any issues, 
it should be much easier to "fix" a static thing instead of a moving target.

> We're trying to sort it out, but it's likely that for V9 (IA64 and 
> X86_64), we'll move to a similar licensing and support mechanism.

Level the playing field with Linux.  Should be an answer for those who say VMS 
cannot compete on price.

> There are no plans for a V9 Alpha release.

Nor should there be.  Get Alpha VMS to a supportable point, and leave it there, 
a bit similar to VAX VMS V7.3.  The future is x86, for now.