The Other Road Ahead

Paul Graham’s 2001 essay The Other Road Ahead predicted that server-based applications would become the dominant software delivery model.

The Core Vision

Web-based applications—where software runs on servers accessed through browsers—offer superior advantages for both users and developers. “The software in a Web-based application will be a collection of programs rather than a single binary.”

User Benefits

Web-based software eliminates system administration burden. Instead of managing operating systems and patches, users simply need browser access. This provides:

Data accessibility from any location
Improved reliability through professional server management
Better security
Continuous automatic updates

Development Advantages

Server-based software enables continuous deployment rather than catastrophic annual releases. Developers can release “three to five releases a day” instead of annual versions, reducing compound bugs and improving code quality.

Economic Implications

The model favors startups dramatically. Launching requires minimal capital—Graham notes their company started “under $10,000.” Developers maintain complete control over infrastructure.

The Prediction

Graham predicted Microsoft would face existential challenges in a server-based world. Web-based applications create opportunities for small teams to compete effectively against large corporations.