The future of SQL Developer - the end of Designer?

Last month Oracle released a statement of direction for SQL Developer (here it is). Apart from the enhanced testing capabilities the most important feature will be the support of graphical logical and physical data modeling - just like you normally would do using Oracle Designer - using the acquired CDW4ALL extension. This modeling can be used offline (file-based, using XML files) or repository based. So Oracle seems to be moving (some) essential Designer features towards SQL Developer, therefore reducing the need for Designer - which is obviously in 'maintenance mode' (no new features added).
One thing that worries me a little is that this "functionality is delivered as an optional extension". That sounds a little like $$$...., but I'm not sure about that!

Comments

Dan McGhan said…

Roel,

Hey Roel, how's it going?

I wouldn't be so quick to assume it will be an addon for which they're going to charge. There are quite a few tools that are not included with the default install of SQL Developer that are free to download.

I hope they don't prove me wrong ;)

Regards,
Dan

3:41 pm

Roel said…

Hi Dan,
I'm fine (on holiday starting tomorrow!). I wrote that I'm not sure about a charge - but I'm also not sure about the free download ;-).
CU (in SF?)
Roel

3:55 pm

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