We all know that mangagement decided that the LotusScript and Java editors will not make it into 8.5.
That's because they do not have the proper priority, that means there are not enough resources working on that topic.
There is rumor that the editors are planned for 8.5.1.

My suggestion: hold 8.5 until the editors are ready.

And here is why: if 8.5 hits the market with a shiny new Domino Designer on Eclipse, everyone will think "whow, cool! At least a modern development environment for Notes, good work!"... until they start DDE and see the LS and Java editors.

Then, they will burst in laughter, and while trying to catch air again they will say "why the hell do I have to code Java with an editor from the stoneage, when I'm working with Eclipse, which has a top editor built in?". The same goes for LotusScript.

All those old Notes devs like myself will sigh and continuing working. But my understanding is that IBM wants to attract new developers for Notes, so that more and better applications are built which result in selling more Notes licences.

And believe me, If a standard Java developer who works with Eclipse sees the editors in Domino Designer, he will turn around and flee. And he will tell all his friends "don't ever touch that, stick with Eclipse and Java stuff, don't do Lotus Notes!".

I am very glad that IBM made it that we don't need to apologize for using Lotus Notes anymore. And we can sell Notes and our applications much better since the new nice and sexy GUI in Notes 8.

But I do not wish to keep apologizing for using Domino Designer! I want that other devs envy me that I am allowed to work with the cool Domino Designer.

Best regards,
 Julian Buss