The Howdy Glossary

The Report Program Generator (RPG) is a high-level programming language developed by IBM in 1959, specifically designed for business applications and data processing on IBM mainframe systems. Initially created to simplify report writing on early computers, RPG has evolved through various versions, including RPG II, RPG III, RPG/400 (AS/400), ILE RPG (Integrated Language Environment), and free-format ILE RPG. Each iteration brought enhancements in database handling, calculations, and syntax improvements while ensuring backward compatibility with previous versions. Over time, it has expanded its capabilities to support complex logic and calculations essential for running comprehensive business applications following sound design principles.

RPG's unique features set it apart as a specialized language for business applications. Its inception aimed to streamline report writing tasks; however, subsequent versions have adapted to modern programming practices to offer advanced features for database interaction and calculation handling. This evolution equips developers with the tools needed to apply proper design principles while leveraging a rich set of functionalities for efficient business application development on IBM mainframes. The language's progression through different versions reflects its alignment with contemporary programming standards seen in other languages like COBOL and PL/I.

Despite competition from other high-level languages such as COBOL and PL/I—both known for their strengths in readability, portability, file handling, data manipulation (COBOL), robust features, versatility (PL/I)—RPG maintains a competitive advantage due to its specialization in report generation and database management within the IBM mainframe environment. Developed initially by IBM for simplifying report writing tasks in business computing domains, RPG's tailored focus aligns well with the specific requirements of data processing on IBM systems. This specialization makes it a preferred choice among businesses reliant on mainframes for their data processing needs while supporting complex logic and modern coding practices necessary for comprehensive application development.