Re: Unique capabilities?
Never heard of instant client? Also, Oracle is not the only cross platform application that installs outside program files. While you don't need a full installation with all the administration tools on any client. Or, if performance not an issue, you can still use ODBC. The "space" issue it's because the use of Java - and a clear *nix issue. Just try to use spaces with some VMWare utilities, and enjoy how they fail spectacularl, leaving you to clean the mess.
Moreover, installs on a locked down machine should be done with someone with the required privileges, not anybody. If you don't have the privileges you can't install anything in program files as well.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
