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 11.6.3 Temporary - Why a single implementation
 ----------------------------------------------
 
 Now it seems kind of wasteful to me to have two different systems
 installed for accessing message catalogs.  If we do want to remedy
 `catgets' deficiencies why don't we try to expand `catgets' (in a
 compatible manner) rather than implement an entirely new system.
 Otherwise, we'll end up with two message catalog access systems
 installed with an operating system - one set of routines for packages
 using GNU `gettext' for their internationalization, and another set of
 routines (catgets) for all other software.  Bloated?
 
    Supposing another catalog access system is implemented.  Which do we
 recommend?  At least for Linux, we need to attract as many software
 developers as possible.  Hence we need to make it as easy for them to
 port their software as possible.  Which means supporting `catgets'.  We
 will be implementing the `libintl' code within our `libc', but does
 this mean we also have to incorporate another message catalog access
 scheme within our `libc' as well?  And what about people who are going
 to be using the `libintl' + non-`catgets' routines.  When they port
 their software to other platforms, they're now going to have to include
 the front-end (`libintl') code plus the back-end code (the non-`catgets'
 access routines) with their software instead of just including the
 `libintl' code with their software.
 
    Message catalog support is however only the tip of the iceberg.
 What about the data for the other locale categories.  They also have a
 number of deficiencies.  Are we going to abandon them as well and
 develop another duplicate set of routines (should `libintl' expand
 beyond message catalog support)?
 
    Like many parts of Unix that can be improved upon, we're stuck with
 balancing compatibility with the past with useful improvements and
 innovations for the future.
 
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