Hi Alfredo,
 
Although I agree with your paper, there is another point to consider...
 
Like OS/2, the future of MPE may be the same.  That is, it's a technically
superior operating system, but with no applications to run on it, it will
die.
 
Here are some of my data points:
 
First, my old job at Tempe we were trying to replace our decade old financial
system, with a new client/server model.  After submitting the RFP, the end
result was TWO weak HP3000 vendors, and TEN strong HP9000 vendors.  Hense it
looks like the new financial system will be on the HP9000, rather than the
HP3000.
 
Next, at Kraft Foodservice where I currently work, they are implementing
PeopleSoft for HR and in other areas.  Again, available on the HP9000, but
not on the HP3000.
 
Also look at the number of misfires within CSY not supporting new devices in
a timely basis.  On the HP9000 I can use an optical jukebox for more than
just a backup device.  HP9000 customers for some time have been able to use
the new DDS-2 (16GB) drives, or the DDS jukebox, where it's not available on
the HP3000.  Or HP9000 customers have been able to connect their Centronics
printers in the data center to their systems, but not the HP3000 customers
have not since the driver is not available.
 
Even with all the great work CSY is doing, they are late in game technically
and marketing-wise.  I strongly applaud all their work, but look how long it
takes to get network printing, and other features available.  Speaking of
network printing, I saw a demo of it at Interex and it looked good.
 Afterwards someone else told me they were not using LPR/LPD, which would be
a mistake.
 
Finally, please do not take these comments as comdemation of the HP3000
platform, I still feel strongly about the platform and see it as another key
platform in the overall enterprise.  However going back to my opening
statement, I'm deeply concerned that MPE will wind up like OS/2.  Because if
the applications for the business needs are not there, nor the interfaces to
work well in the enterprise, then it will truly die over time...  :-(
 
Regards,
/isaac
 
p.s.  I still feel that over time the HP3000 and HP9000 will merge as one,
giving customers the BEST of both worlds!!!  Each release of HPUX comes
closer to MPE, as well as each release of MPE comes closer to HPUX.