Using convert to transform source code

Abstract

AbstractThere are a number of reasons why one might wish to transform the source code of an operational program: To make the program conform to a standard layout. To make the program conform to syntax and semantics standards. To improve the performance of the program. The primary advantage of transforming source code into a standard form is that the programs become easier to maintain. The cost‐benefit of standardization is thus realized at a later stage in the lifetime of the programs. Alternatively the cost‐benefit of improving performance is immediate.The desirability of transforming source code is affected by several parameters: The benefit to be realized from transformation. The cost of transformation. The time involved in transformation. The risk associated with transformation. If the benefit of transformation is significant, the cost, time and risk associated with the process can be considerably reduced by automating the process.In this paper, application of the CONVERT language to the transformation problem is discussed. CONVERT was developed as a vehicle for writing automatic language and dialect converters. Clearly, the features useful for converters are also applicable when the application involves transformation of source code.