Today is a big news day in the world of Drupal.  Two of our most highly respected colleagues, Development Seed and Phase 2 Techonology, have brokered a deal in which Phase 2 has acquired Development Seed's Open Atrium and Managing News products.

To my knowledge, the deal is the first of its kind; it is certainly the first involving such prominent Drupal products and agencies.

Just a few short years ago, Drupal was viewed as something of a niche platform for non-profits, small businesses, and open source enthusiasts.  It was not at all unusual to hear questions like, "Can Drupal handle that much traffic?" and "How many nodes can a Drupal site really manage?"

Drupal has certainly grown up fast.

Fast-forward to 2011, and it is the platform of choice for sites ranging from sole-proprieter storefronts to complex, high-traffic multi-site networks from some of the most recognizable names in media, entertainment, publishing, education and, of recent note, the top tiers of government. 

Recent weeks have seen active discussion in the community regarding the potential for more widespread product models in Drupal, and how such models can be incorporated into the fabric of the Drupal community.  This deal represents an early indicator of the potential for successful productization in the spirit of Drupal.

It has been a privilege to be a part of this evolution and work alongside professionals of the caliber found at Phase 2 and Development Seed. 

I look forward to their future breakthroughs in open source product development and heartily congratulate them on this momentus step in both the evolution of their companies, and that of Drupal.

I tip my hat to you, Jeff, Eric, and your respective teams.  Congratulations again!