[Pythonmac-SIG] Package installation

[konrad.hinsen at laposte.net]

While installing some Mac applications, I wondered if Python package 
installation could not be just as simple as application installation: 
copy a bundle to some folder (/Applications/PythonPackages or 
/Library/Python or whatever) and use it. For updating, throw away the 
old bundle and install the new one. For test-driving a new version, put 
it into a test directory that has priority on the search path. No 
installers, no passwords, and always a clear view of what is installed.

Unless I have overlooked something, this should require no more than
1) A modified import procedure for MacPython
2) A new document bundle format for Python packages
3) Perhaps some clever code that caches bundle information for 
efficiency in imports.

An added advantage of specific bundles would be the possibility to 
include binary modules for different Python versions in one bundle, 
transparent to the user, although this would only work in practice for 
a few agreed-upon Python versions that packager would be required to 
have.

So now my question to the Mac veterans: does this sound realistic? And 
desirable?

Konrad.