Functional Benchmarks for Fourth Generation Languages

摘要

In recent years, fourth generation language (4GL) usage has expanded in dataprocessing organizations, especially where end-users have assumed increased programming responsibilities. Since there are no 4GL standards, managers selecting a 4GL need some method of determining how well a particular 4GL will meet organizational, application, and user requirements. The report provides a methodology to assist in that determination. It contains 'functional benchmarks' (as opposed to performance benchmarks) consisting of a testing methodology and descriptions of tests to evaluate the capabilities of a particular 4GL in relation to organizational requirements. Test results are evaluated at two levels: the 4GL's ability to perform a task, and the ease of performing it. These evaluations are combined with user-defined weighted requirements to produce an overall rating for each 4GL tested.