Containers, the management and packaging technology for applications, are useful for many reasons: Packaging is simpler and self-contained Underlying operating system distribution becomes irrelevant Performance, therefore density, and therefore cost, is much better when working without a hypervisor layer To my mind, though, one of the most important elements in any technology is how it affects culture and incentives. For example, MVC development frameworks are helpful for many reasons, but the most important is that it encourages (and sometimes forces) a cleaner way of thinking about and building software.

In the cellar of Westminster Abbey in London, lies a lovely little café called the Cellarium, with all of the architectural design and feel of the Abbey. Of course, as it is in the heart of London, it has good tea as well. Earlier this week I was privileged to have a fascinating and wide-ranging discussion with Adrian Colyer, which led to 2 provocative questions: Will Microsoft open-source Windows?