Given that both systemd and upstart exist, it would seem that it is time for a next generation init. And given that Ubuntu has now accepted systemd, it has crit

Given that both systemd and upstart exist, it would seem that it is time for a next generation init. And given that Ubuntu has now accepted systemd, it has critical mass and should be the new standard. "Doing one thing and doing it well" is a fine guide for system tools, but does not apply to everything - look at the kernel, or Gnome for instance.