Programming Languages in Your Business

Jeremy Vigil

Pos 370

Introduction to programming languages

Instructor

John Bauer

Overview

            Programming languages have evolved over the years.  We started out programming with ones and zeros.  Then, we moved to assembly language.  This was very time consuming but this was only the beginning.  Now more advanced object oriented programming is used.  These advanced programming languages like C++ make it easier and quicker to program an application.  The goal of programming languages is to become closer to the English language.  The closer programming languages get to the English language the easier it will be of more people to program. 

            I work for XO communications.  We are a telecommunications company serving small to large businesses.  I help install voice and data circuits.  The programming languages that are used are transparent to what I do.  The operating system that I use is Windows NT so object oriented programming and graphics plays a big part because of the GUI.

C++ Programming

            Most user applications at my job are programmed with C++.  This includes simple applications like telnet to complex applications like Internet explorer.  I believe C++ is used mostly at my job because of its popularity.  More people are familiar with C++ than any other programming language.  This makes it easy to find and hire C++ programmers.  With C++, code can be reused for other programs as objects.  This is how programming has become easier and less complex.  When computers were first used, programmers had to complete the entire program every time an application was needed.  This changed when code was made for reuse.  Duplicate code now could be shared with everyone. 

            SIMS is an example of an application used at XO that was programmed in C++.  This application is our order entry and delivery application.  This uses a GUI interface to access order information.  I.e. type of service and contact information.  This application also provides the steps for a complete installation.

Java Programming

During the last several years, applications have moved to the Internet.  Internet browsers have been called universal interface because any application can be adapted to an Internet browser.  More people are more familiar with a web browser than any other application.  This is also reflected in my job.  Java is a programming language used for web based applications.  This is very handy when the users of an application are spread out by large distances.  Java has spread very rapidly and is soon becoming the most popular programming language.  Corporate America in intrigued by it because of the concept of a universal interface.  This means less money used for training users.

Web based time sheet is an example of my company’s use of Java.  It is used to gather and store information securely.  It also allows all programming information to stay in one central location to be downloaded on to your desktop.  This keeps all information the same. 

Conclusion

            There are a Varity of programming languages available.  No one programming language is universal.  They all have their strengths and weaknesses.  Old ones are replaced by new easier to use languages but they all translate to one’s and zero’s.  Eventually we will be able to type what we want in plain English so anyone with imagination will be able to be a computer programmer.