This graph is from an old article but increasingly relevant topic when considering what backend technologies to choose when developing a web app. From what bits and pieces I know here and there, it seems to be in line with my impressions of them and what my peers (from each platform) tell me about it.

It’s a pretty graph. How accurate does this model the real world? Who knows….

In addition to Java, Flex 3 is allegedly supposed to better cater to these other crowds. Let’s hope and see!

The original article is here.

Have you ever received an email about a great job oppurtunity? I got this email this morning:

Hi Mark,

I work for an IT recruitment and consulting firm located in Toronto. We’re currently looking for someone to fill the above role with a terrific company in the Oakville area. I just came across your resume and believe you might make a good fit. Please peruse the attached job description, see if it looks like something you might be interested in and get back to me with the latest copy of your resume. Should you be currently engaged, please feel free to forward this to anyone you know who would be willing and able to perform the role.

Regards,

{headhunter’s name ommited}
Staffing Consultant
{company omitted}

My first reaction after reading the job description is “f-ing idiots!!!”. You guys are recruiting ME to work for the company that I already work for! Being the big joke this was, I contemplated should I respond and say I was interested and here’s my resume minus my current employment listing. Then I’d get an interview with H.R. and if I got an offer then I would have to quit my current job to accept the new one in the same company, same department. So yeah, it would be a waste of time on all involved parties.

My second reaction is like how did this happen in the first place? Oh, poor guy, I havn’t updated my resume since I started working here.

Anyways, are you interested in ActionScripting in product development environment? Learn about the role here.

If you’re an MXNA blogger in the G.T.A., I would be greatful if you shared this information on your blog. Thanks!

Position Summary
The Flash Developer will be responsible for integrating unique solutions within our Flash Gaming Suites. The position strongly emphasizes ActionScript programming, from core libraries to interface development. The position will be part of a team of 2-5 flash developers and 2-3 graphic designers of varying experience.

Key Responsibilities
- Assist in the creation and maintenance of Parlay’s suite of Flash games
- Integrate solutions within Parlay’s Gaming Suites
- Flash skill requirement is largely ActionScript and interfacing with Java and Web components

Required Skills and Competencies
- Competency in the use of all Flash IDE’s from Flash MX 2004 onward
- Extensive Flash ActionScript experience with AS1 and AS2 with a workable understanding of AS3.
- Familiarity with OO concepts, design patterns and is comfortable with implementing them for Flash applications
- Familiarity with HTML
- Must be flexible and able to work with AS1, AS2, and AS3 scripts
- Formal training in programming is a requirement
- 2-3 years related experience
- Strong written and oral communication skills

Definite Assets
- Proficiency in Photoshop, Illustrator, Sound and Video Editing Software
- Understanding of Java, XML, HTML, and other web technologies
- Gaming experience
- A College Diploma or University Degree in a technology field

So if you are interested or you know someone who might be, please send me your resume/CSV at mlapasa at parlaygroup dot com. The role is focused on client-side application development and not website design. For more information about the company, please visit http://www.parlaygroup.com.

Mark Lapasa
Flash Developer
Parlay Entertainment
Where the World Plays Bingo.
mlapasa at parlaygroup dot com
www.parlaygroup.com
2305 Wyecroft Road, Second Floor,
Oakville, ON, Canada L6L 6R2

First-time Flash In TO poster “djshagz” shares experiences into using Microsoft Expression Blend and XAML.

“Well, I’ve been working with Blend for a few weeks now, working on a POC using WPF technologies for a client, as part of an exercise to learn XAML and Blend, figure out what the workflow it suppose to be and how it might fit within our company, etc.

I have to say, it was a really frustrating experience, but I have to qualify that by saying I had never done any C# sharp programming before…”

The post seems honnest and sincere. I have yet to take a stab at it myself. You can find the post here.