RE: Spaces in file and directory names (was: Alias syntax for a m odule that has a space in its name)

[Jim.Hyslop]

Stephen Carville wrote:
> No.  I am reminding you that new tools sometimes require 
> learning new ways.

Sometimes. In the example you cited, the technology simply didn't exist to
allow automobiles to be controlled using reins.

The computing tools of the 20th century required you to use short file
names; they required ALL_CAPS because they could not handle lower case; and
so on. In those days, we had no choice but to change our practises to
conform to the limited capabilities of the machine.

But the tools have changed - today they are more powerful and flexible.
Software has the capability to behave the way ordinary people (i.e. people
who have not been forced to conform to computers) would expect. So if the
tools have changed, why haven't practises and attitudes? Why do we still
have people who think "spaces in file names are evil"? Why can't I name my
document "2006 Department Budget" in a directory named "Financial
Documents"?

-- 
Jim Hyslop
Senior Software Designer
Leitch Technology International Inc. ( http://www.leitch.com )
Columnist, C/C++ Users Journal ( http://www.cuj.com/experts )