Abstract
Since the conception of the electronic computer, software technology has evolved through four stages or generations: machine, assembler, high-level or third generation (3GL), and fourth generation languages (4GL). The fourth generation of software is non-procedural in nature; that is, 4GL's employ a small set of powerful commands that tell the computer what to do, as opposed to procedural languages that tell the computer how to do it. Fourth generation languages may also include procedural capabilities which can be combined with non-procedural code. With the focus shifting from how to what, 4GL's allow nonprofessional programmers to get results, are typically user-friendly, and may of them include a database management system. In addition, less code is required using fourth generation software; therefore: debugging is reduced, it is easier to understand and maintain another's code, and results can be obtained in less time. As the gap between people and computers decreases through the use of fourth generation software, productivity is and will continue to be greatly enhanced. This concept, which is often referred to as end-user computing, is gaining momentum with the advent of PC-based microcomputer 4GL's.
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