On Tue, 12 Dec 2006 03:06:09 GMT in B0pfh.4188$IG6.1800@trndny01 Ray B wrote:
I was one of the original subscribers to WildCatt, and thought it was one of
the most useful programs out there, and still think the Grays are owed a
huge debt of thanks for coming up with it.

When Alex came out with OrchidWiz, I was a bit skeptical, but have learned
to really appreciate its simplicity and functionality.

Surprising to me was the fact that - even though I had a more-or-less
"standing order" for Wildcatt updates - I have not received a single email
from them since OW came on the market.

How do OW and WC compare for integration with other software?
(IE automatically doing a set of queries with each new dataset
to see if a cross has a name registered for it. Or flag typos
when adding a plant to a personal tracking system. Or flag
when an existing plant has had its genus changed by the taxonomists
Or having a query go to this database as well as a non-orchid
database. Or making the information available via SMS when
I'm out buying plants).

And how do they compare on licenses for disseminating specific
pieces of information contained within them?
(IE, If I were to divide my sharry baby and sell it and wanted
to include the culture sheet from OW or WC, what sort of a royalties
would be desired. And whether or not terms would change for
single sale vs. many sales).

I found OW advertising interesting from a reference viewpoint.
However, I found the advertised product lacking from a integration
viewpoint. Alex appeared afraid to discuss his product from
an integration view point. He seemed afraid, and rightfully so,
that someone would dump all of his data and do another product
based on his data.

Anyhoo, I'd appreciate opinions from folks that use either product
and craft their own SQL, or kludge flatfile freeform databases for
other information.
--
Chris Dukes
elfick willg: you can't use dell to beat people, it wouldn't stand up
to the strain... much like attacking a tank with a wiffle bat