The Howdy Glossary

IBM RPG II, or Report Program Generator II, was created by IBM in the 1950s to handle vast amounts of data common in business applications. Designed specifically for commercial environments requiring robust data processing and reporting functionalities, RPG II provided tools that streamlined and simplified the development of applications with extensive data manipulation needs. Over time, it evolved into modern iterations such as free-format RPG IV, which is still used on IBM midrange servers like System i (AS/400) today.

IBM RPG II introduced several unique features that made it a highly specialized business-oriented programming language. It excelled in efficiently managing large volumes of commercial data and supported advanced file operations essential for complex calculations and report generation. This structured approach to data handling contributed significantly to its longevity and ongoing use in businesses needing robust data processing capabilities within the IBM ecosystem.

RPG II faced competition from other business-oriented languages like COBOL and FORTRAN; however, its niche specialization set it apart. Unlike more general-purpose languages, RPG II's focus on efficient report generation and tailored support for complex business requirements gave it a competitive edge among companies dealing with substantial volumes of information. Additionally, its seamless integration with IBM midrange servers further solidified its position as a preferred choice for businesses seeking comprehensive solutions for their extensive data processing needs within the IBM ecosystem.