Biztalk C# is this better than web?

[easyrider]

I am working permie these days and I am into C# and Biztalk, though also I have done web stuff like the usual ASP/java script/html/ etc
So, I am thinking that Biztalk (systems integration)is alright enogh, but what about the contract possibilities?
Looking over the (depleted) job boards I see that web technologies are the most asked for (common) skills.
Biztalk is not so common but does that mean I should consider chucking it in to go back to web dev?
Or is biztalk a valued specialism like SAP for example, which would mean less available jobs but also less competition?
Maybe I should be looking for SOA/web services/XML, that sector, as my new 'stomping ground' (when I eventually get out of permiedom).
What do learned folks reckon?

[themistry]

BizTalk is a niche skills with good architects/devs few and far between.

Take of that what you will.

I'm going to go out on a limb and state someone coming from a web background will not initally make a good biztalk dev as your thought processes and experiance is not aligned with the new problems you will face.

TM

[northernladuk]

What is it with the raft of oddly worded posts tonight or is this something I am going to have to get used to more and more?

I am not understanding you can pack Biztalk in if you are permie and it is your job?

You also need to think about why you are going to leave permie land and what you take with you. The most important thing as a contractor is your experience. The recruiters will be looking to see if you can do the job.
Your comment below worries me.

Maybe I should be looking for SOA/web services/XML, that sector, as my new 'stomping ground' (when I eventually get out of permiedom).

Sounds a bit like putting the cart before the horse. You need these skills first to be of any value to the client not the other way around. Get these skills and solid experiences IN permiedom and THEN go contracting.

[easyrider]

I am a Biztalk permie so I already have these skills. I also have web skills which are 'on the backburner' somewhat. TheMistry was spot on about the thought process comment. I suppose I am missing the web dev work......
IMO web dev work can be as 'unimportant' as making text and display amendments sometimes.

Ideally I would be in a position where I could make my own class libraries that others would go off and use, but this 'coding utopia' scenario is usually fouled up by useless managers, unclear /changing specifications and deadlines. Besides with the existing code base around there is a lot of work maintenance programming, not as satisfying work but still skilled.

I notice that some biztalk 'devs' (permie) can get away with not being able to code! Shocking.