Unit 6
P2 - Describe the factors influencing the choice of programming language
Abigail Stuart
Time constraints
Firstly, time is an important subject when choosing a programming language. This is because it depends on when the project is due. For example if you do not have much time and you have a set date then choosing the correct language is very important since some programming languages take longer than others to use.
Organisational policy
When choosing a programming language, organisation is very important since other people need to find files and documents. Some have specific folders that you have to save In. They can be saved in all kinds of files. This also means that your company would have to plan ahead and decide how to organize the programming files, you have to choose what the best programming language is for your program.
Suitability
When choosing a programming language is is important to choose the one that is most suitable for what you are using it for. For example Visual basic may work better for other programs rather than others. If you choose to use a programming language that doesn't suit your program then it will not give it any justice.
Availability of trained staff
Some of your staff that will be working to create your program will have to be familiar with the programming language. This means that staff may need training when or if you choose a new programming language. Most staff may be used top using one type of programming language so it would take time to train them or find new employees, this wouldn't help time management or money problems.
Reliability
When choosing a programming language you have to make sure that it is reliable, for example some programs may be buggy therefore would not be reliable when using them to program things such as hospital machinery. Whereas if you only need programming for something basic such as a calculator than programming languages such as visual basic would work well. You wouldn't trust Visual basic for important software since it mostly for users, beginners and most basic tasks. You wouldn't want your computer crashing on you when you are halfway through programming, especially when you have not saved your work.
Environment
o Hardware
The hardware that is going to used has to have the right specifications to run the programming language you have chose, Otherwise you cannot use it. You may have to upgrade to a better computer for better computer specifications. All hardware would have to be compatible with your operating system to make sure they are usable. Advanced hardware like graphics tablets and others may be needed for certain projects. This helps prevent crashing and effects the speed of the computers performance.
o Operating systems
The operating system that is installed on the computers that you will be using need to be compatible with the programming language, it needs to me able to run smoothly and work correctly without bugs. Preferably a reliable operating system that updates regularly to ensure any bugs or problems can be fixed.
Development and Maintenance costs
You have to keep in mind the cost of the program you would like to use. Not only the cost but how much it will cost to keep updating the software when needed. Also how much it would cost to keep everything running.It will also be quite costly depending on the amount of staff you have, even more so if they have to be trained to use a different language that you have selected.
Expandability
When choosing a programming language, you need to make sure that you can expand the program that you are using and making. is the program expandable, for example when new features are released, with your program still be compatible? This means your have to be able to expand whenever you are needed to, just like updating the software.
