Success stories of Eclipse as an application framework (RCP)

Question

I keep reading about Eclipse as an application framework (i.e. about Eclipse Rich Client Platform). I am unable to find comprehensive list of success stories of Eclipse as an application framework (RCP) other than Eclipse as an IDE which is extremely popular. I have seen customer testimonials of Netbeans platform, but not for Eclipse Rich Client platform.

What are the case-studies or success stories of Eclipse as an application framework (Rich Client Platform) in commercial and open source world?

Answer 1

I can add my own humble success story using RCP as a client platform. In has a slow learning curve, but once mastered, there are huge benefits. In particular :

• Platform neutral. It runs well on windows and linuxes, there are little surprises here and there, but overall it's being great so far.
• Built in update management, fantastic for version releases and fixes.
• It scales up great, adding new features is almost painless.
• Being a platform and not just a GUI library, it gives lots of perks.

Cons :

• Not every application fits the eclipse philosophy and view/editor paradigm.
• It's relatively tough for beginners
• It can be way too cumbersome for achieving simple tasks
• Documentation is not the best, community is rather small, comparing to other alternatives..

Overall, I don't regret by choosing it. I personally hate web based clumsy and slow performing interfaces. Here you've got native, fast and responsive GUI naturally integrated with the desktop.

Answer 2

Here is a list of open source products built on the Eclipse Rich Client Platform: http://www.eclipse.org/community/rcpos.php

Commercial products: http://www.eclipse.org/community/rcpcp.php