[texhax] latex vs. pdflatex

[Philip G. Ratcliffe]

> This is a contractual support issue, so by "standardizing" I mean that
> I will help users with one type of latex and for the other kinds they
> are on their own. I am not removing any software that is already
> installed.
>
> In theory .sty files should work the same with any kind of latex, but
> in practice I find that they don't. And rather than sit here for many
> hours trying to figure out why, I would rather focus on one kind and
> understand it thoroughly.
>
> The majority here seem to favor pdflatex, so I think I will go with
> that. Thanks, everyone.

Aha!  That's a little clearer.  I still think you ought to consider your
decision very carefully.  It really does depend on the majority use
(assuming you feel you must reduce your efforts).  I write high-energy
physics articles and conference proceedings, for which there is often a
style file provided and which is *always* aimed at latex and *not* pdflatex.
I must confess that, although I have used pdflatex, I do not have the
detailed knowledge to be so markedly aware of differences as you seem to be.
However, I would venture that we are getting into the sort of subtlty here
thatactually imples that the user is not so *naive* himself either.
Moreover, given the wealth of FAQ and e-mail lists like the present, your
main aim might best be that of being able to direct your users in the right
direction information wise.

Anyway, that's my penn'orth on the subject.

Cheers,  Phil