Depends on the job. For example, I write super low-level embedded code, and it is advantageous for us to control all allocation of code space and memory space.

Depends on the job. For example, I write super low-level embedded code, and it is advantageous for us to control all allocation of code space and memory space. The reason is so that patches can be very small. To help with this, we have very specific tools that help us with visual allocation maps, custom diff tools and patch generators, etc. This may never become mainstream - the resources are just too small for widespread adoption. Just my $0.02