In addition to my opinions about my perception of Ignition's shortcomings, I have also(and always) stated that I still prefer it when given a choice. I would've never make the previously posted statements without a general idea about the capabilities of the at hand subject. I am a Certified Ignition Integrator (Ignition 7.7 Core Test)and of course I have graduated both the Vision and MES Inductive University classes.
From my own experience all I can say is that if you have been futzing around with Rockwell's latest software you'll find Ignition to be a breath of fresh all do respect. I know people have their favorite software, and that is OK. Suffice it to say that I am in 100% disagreement with them. I'd venture that the detractors have only very limited exposure and have never been to an Ignition training course. For repeating graphics I haven't seen a tool as powerful at the template repeater on any other HMI package.
Ignition templates, template binding and indirect bindings are very powerful reusable graphic tools. As opposed to others that just make you wonder if they are just around to see if they can drive you insane. Its a platform that is fun and exciting to work with, constantly keeps my interest and challenges me to do better and better work. I've also learned simply by just doing, oh and refining my SQL ability too. I've learned either by going to the Ignition University, Adapting cool stuff we have done on other platforms, breaking apart their demo, and running through python tutorials on the web.
As mentioned, the Ignition University is outstanding, but if you really want to learn some things download the entire Ignition Demo Virtual Machine, then break it apart and see how it works. They are growing and it shows (both good and bad), I want nothing to do with anyone else's package quite frankly. I love the platform, wish I had more opportunity with it. I would love to display the app I have, but could be frowned upon. I wouldn't say that, but posting some of those things may not quite fit various business agreements that maybe in place with a customer and/or the organization. I guess not that many people are using ignition