Any programmers in this forum? (consulting, application, applications, reputation)

[Jaysie_Marnix]

My skill set needs a revamp, but unsure which to work on.

I've been programming for over 15years, and the route I took was Pascal to Delphi, and eventually some SQL.

My company is using Visual Studios and MS SQL for the current development, and some C#.

In concept, the codes and theories are similar. I just need to learn the syntax.

But I am wondering if this is worth mastering, or should I try other language and development platforms?

When I look at job listings, I often see Oracle or PeopleSoft. I wonder if this is a good alternate to pursue.

If any of you want to share your coding transitions over your careers, I'd appreciate your perspective of the matter. Thanks.

[NYSD1995]

I am a lead in a large-ish C#/.NET shop. I mostly focus on web apps. I have about 8 years experience overall.

It all depends on what you want to do.

PeopleSoft and Oracle Apps can be very lucrative *if* you have the business domain knowledge. Generally these areas tend to dominated by consulting firms, so the high rates mean lots and lots of travel. It's also often not particularly technical, mostly configuring vendor products, report writing, etc. A lot of people get there via the Business analyst route.

If you like software development, my advice would be to learn C#/SQL through and through, make sure to get good web skills, and learn some modern tooling like O/R mappers, MVC patterns, etc.

[Jaysie_Marnix]

Thanks for the input Sassberto.

My current project is C#/.NET using MS Visual Studio to convert our current Win32 app into web base. So I'll get this mastered and see what other project I can get later next year.

[gallowsCalibrator]

I took my current job with knowledge mainly in C++ ((high school actually tought something useful)) and a touch of SQL (running a game server) but I quickly adapted to the Visual Basic, .Net and FoxPro environment. I'd say master as many languages as possible.

I'm going to be taking on a big promotion and raise as a result of my flexibility.

[RowingMunkeyCU]

Currently working with FoxPro (and FoxPro-based legacy applications, ie - TeleMagic) as well as some older call tracking software (really old, company no longer exists). I also do some SQL and SuprTool related work as well.

I've been looking at going for an Oracle Certified Professional certification. Anyone have thoughts on this?

[nativeDallasite]

Around here there seem to be far more MSSQL development and DBA positions than for Oracle. Oracle positions are often more lucrative, though.

ANSI-standard SQL works in both Oracle and MSSQL though.

[NYSD1995]

Oracle jobs tend to be either DBA / Admin jobs or using the bundled tools (i.e. Oracle Apps). DBA work is quite lucrative but not easy to get into, you need lots of experience and a good reputation (would you let a greenhorn run the corporate financials database?)

Generally the Oracle world is dominated by contractors, you can do very well if you have the skills and experience. Most new development work is happening on SQL server, there is more opportunity over there. Personally if I had to do it all over again today and was just starting out I would probably concentrate on SQL Server 2005, in particular mastering the Reporting Services and SSIS.

[Tek_Freek]

Guy across the street worked for Oracle. Made some SERIOUS money. We only saw him on the weekends. Spent his time between Texas, California, New York, and Nevada (I think). He was real tired of airports and airplanes. When IT went south so did the job.

He retired.