SYSTEM vs USER

[Tyler Cameron Style]

The documentation I have says the overhead for SYSTEM is pretty hefty,
and to use USER instead.  Which is better for performing very basic OS
functions, like kicking off a script or printing/chmod'ing a file?

(EG) system "/usr/bin/moocow_test"

     VS

     user cow = /usr/bin/moocow_test
     cow=""     'would this be necessary to have it execute, or is
                'just user good enough?



Anyone have experience with comparing/contrasting these two puppies
who would like to share?

Thanks!
                
     Tyler (tyler aT kinotox dOT com)