I think that is bound to happen as a necessity to be able to manage so much code. I feel that Modo needs to get in touch with side effect to form a revolution or get a hold of the NewTech and offer some kind of partnership and combine their efforts if they want to stay a float. 401 is key for luxology, it is now a never.
From the Blog
We need help developing an online course for teens to learn Blender.
I think that using blender to introduce teens into learning 3D is not such a great choice because I believe using blender would scare kids away from 3d.
Yes blender is free but that doesn’t mean its easy to use. Like Maya, Blender has a confusing menu system and it has a steep learning curb that would more than likely misguide kids and discourage them. I would recommend teaching them on a program like modo (luxology.com) 
since the program makes it so easy to learn 3d plus it is used by many production houses to produce assets while still using other programs like maya or blender for animation or effects. modo has a really nice educational program I would recomend you would check it out. ( And not I am not getting kick backs)
Just until recently, learning 3d meant to spend hours and hours trying to figure out just where to start. I know, you may know photoshop or even after effects (AF) yet AF’S 3D system is not a total 3d animation system and its what its called pseudo 3d because its not real 3d. Seen a new movie from pixar? well, we all have at some point but do you know how it works?
Well, the subject is more complex that what I can explain here but If you new to 3d or computer graphics, let me guide you.
Usually you want to start by modeling an object. To do that you will need a program, there are many programs out there that can do this but if you are new to 3D you might want to start with an awesome program called MODO. Modo will make the modeling progress as easy are working with clay and with the amount of training that you can get for cheap on their website you will be up and running in no time. If you are familiar with photoshop you will find the layers to be what you would expect from photoshop. Once you have done a model, it is time to render it.
Rendering in modo is as easy are hitting the F10 key. It is taking a picture of the object you just model. In modo realistic results are very easy to obtain.
There is much much much more to talk about 3d but seriously. Give modo a try. The cup above, I made under five minutes with modo. They have a free trial. check it out. Let me know your experiences.
Cheers
Update Sept 14 08:
I found a great tutorial that shows how to start with modo/3d by making a cup/mug . at http://www.vfxworld.com/?atype=articles&id=3759
I recommend clicking in the print view and click on show pictures.
And just in case the article goes offline, vfxworldcom_modocup
Enjoy,