Dependence on Programming Experts

[Chipp Walters]

Greg,

All good points for a new programmer ... in any language. The fact is,
Rev is more a programming environment than a multimedia toolkit,
though the recent marketing message may suggest differently. With a
product as powerful as Rev, which can do so much more than Keynote, it
is very difficult for first time users to 'get up to speed.' Perhaps
that is why HyperCard was eventually dropped by Apple as well.

Given the limited resources of a small company like RR, it is quite a
challenge to market in such a wide fashion. But, the conundrum is a
familiar one seen by many of the Xtalks. Market only to developers and
you cannot succeed IF your exit strategy demands significant return on
investment (see Allegiant).

So, the thinking goes: One must find a more 'vertical niche' to market
to. That niche is represented by the current RevMedia solution, which
is at this early stage, still treading water. But, you cannot forsake
your existing customers either, so resources are stretched trying to
create a 'best in class' product for the Media channel, while
improving on the developer product offerings. A tough task to say the
least (not to mention all the marketing challenges as well).

I don't really have any answers, other than to say Rev has gotten
further than the rest of the similarly equipped companies. The product
is quite capable and sound, if you take the time to learn it. But,
Keynote, it's not.

best,
Chipp