Bluestone
Bluestone was really where I "grew up" professionally. Some day I will write up a little history from my rememberances and perspective. For now, it was a unique setting with a great group of people coming together to create something from nothing. It was devastating to tear it apart after HP had acquired it - a waste of good code and good people. A lot of lessons were learned and everyone has moved on - many with a great amount of success.
Our big break was developing Sapphire/Web in 1994 - one of the very first products that made it easy to develop database driven applications for the web.
HP
When we first agreed to be acquired by HP, I thought it was a good idea. But plans do not always turn out. Just ask Carly and Capellas who looked so happy right after the Compaq acquisition was done.
Post HP
When I left HP, I had my compatriot, Al Smith, perform a ceremony - much like a dishonorable discharge, where he tore off my HP logo...
It was certainly dishonorable since we had to lay off about 600 people in the HP Middleware Division, which I headed at the time. To say it helped me readjust my life priorities is an understatement. And, no I am not a supporter of the Carly for President campaign...
Bluestone Video
Video from 2000 when Bluestone was acquired by HP. Talks about the run up to going public and our growth.