I think that Rick would add a few reasons to the list. Possible examples:
Working with an operating system foreign to him,
I don't think this is necessarily true because of the fact that e-Sword has been built for OSX Macs (including iOS).
Complex and time-consuming development,
This can be also true for developing for Windows, and is dependent on the what is being developed. The code is basically pretty much the same irrespective of the platform that it is developed for, and only a few lines of code is changed for compatibility of the OS itself
Getting and learning new development tools, some of which cost money,
Not really because most IDEs (Integrated Development Environments) are pretty much standardized, as also is the programming language used. C++ is still C++ irrespective of the IDE it is used in. What makes a program work on a particular platform is the Compiler it builds for. Moreover, Embarcadero has developed a programming IDE which developers can compile for multiple platforms (Windows, OSX, iOS, and Android). Fact is when it comes to the "Write once, Compile for all," maxim, I really think that Embarcadero's RAD Studio would have to be the ideal IDE to have, and it would really save a great deal of issues when it comes to developing for other platforms.
Then only part will agree with you is the cost factor, but once it is eliminated, then really there are no problems.
Moreover, because of VM technology, it is not difficult to program in a totally different environment/platform using an IDE built for it. And I think when it came to developing e-Sword for iOS and OSX, that is what Rick actually did.
A thought just occurred to me. I tend to think if Rick were to use a tool, i.e., as Embarcadero's RAD Studio, I think that he would save money due to the fact that all testing would be done within the IDE, thus eliminating the need for different types of VM ware.
Blessings,
Edited by APsit190, 29 April 2015 - 04:42 PM.