VA for Java would have survived much longer had it not make a fundamental mistake. The complete project data, UI, configuration, classes, files, etc.,) was stored in a single file. That file appeared more like a database file. That helped it show errors in realtime, keep the project always accurate, and screen transitions slick. It was difficult for multiple developers to work in a single project. It was around the same time source control systems were becoming workplace tools and the concept of multiple developers working on a single file. In those days, it was not still possible for multiple developers (Visual SourceSafe) to work on a single file at a time