COBOL: strengths, weaknesses, and commercial enterprise applications

COBOL: Overview of a third generation programming language

Many programming languages exist. The first programming languages, or first generation languages were utilized primarily by scientists and engineers to carry out complex programming functions. With modern businesses conducting operations on a global level, interacting with one another in increasingly complex ways, programmers realized the need for a more intuitive language, one that business enterprises could easily integrate to streamline processes. While not perfect, COBOL does have its historical share of ups and downs, today this complex yet "natural" language fulfills the very needs commercial enterprises have had for years. A detailed overview of its utility, strengths and weakness is provided in this paper. A comprehensive review of the literature and criticisms of COBOL is also provided for review and commentary.