I just posted my experiences while installing QmailToaster at http://www.wllm.com/node/21 . Since this project is based on qmail, everything must be compiled, which can (and does) complicate the install process somewhat. I found myself wishing that I could yum or apt-get all this stuff more than a few times. While I don't typically compile my software to optimize performance on my system and I'm quick to sacrifice the latest version for an easy install, I can see the value of doing this. But no need to sacrifice a package manager for compiling if the srpm's are available. Also, I've found that software configuration and/or placement in the system is much more problematic in packages than compilation options or any other compile-time decisions. Ultimately, the package is only as good as the packager has made it- lots of packages just aren't quality efforts.
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While I don't typically compile my software to optimize performance on my system and I'm quick to sacrifice the latest version for an easy install, I can see the value of doing this. But no need to sacrifice a package manager for compiling if the srpm's are available. Also, I've found that software configuration and/or placement in the system is much more problematic in packages than compilation options or any other compile-time decisions. Ultimately, the package is only as good as the packager has made it- lots of packages just aren't quality efforts.