Description: PL/I is a programming language designed for scientific, engineering, and commercial applications. Its name comes from ‘Programming Language One’, and it is characterized by its ability to handle both data processing and process control tasks. PL/I combines elements from languages like COBOL and FORTRAN, making it versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications. This language allows for structured programming and exception handling, facilitating the creation of robust and efficient programs. Additionally, PL/I supports both high-level programming and low-level data manipulation, making it an attractive option for developers working in complex environments. Its syntax is rich and allows for the definition of complex data structures, which is essential for applications that require intensive data handling. Although its popularity has declined over time, PL/I remains relevant in certain sectors, especially in enterprise systems, where its ability to integrate with other languages and systems is highly valued.
History: PL/I was developed by IBM in the 1960s, with the aim of creating a language that could meet programming needs in both scientific and commercial fields. The first version was released in 1964, and since then it has undergone several updates and revisions. Over the years, PL/I has evolved to include modern features, maintaining its relevance in enterprise environments.
Uses: PL/I is primarily used in business and scientific applications, especially in enterprise systems. It is common in data processing, database management, and in applications that require high performance and reliability.
Examples: An example of PL/I usage is in the banking sector, where it is used for transaction processing and customer data management. It is also employed in data analysis applications in large corporations.