why so many versions in COBOL?

vinu · New User Joined: 03 Jul 2005 Posts: 9

hi,

i am using cobol for programming. i am not sure which version.
why there are so many versions in cobol. also, which is the latest to learn. please give an elborate reply. (moderators, i think are the best to do)

thanks,
budding COBOL prgmr.

mmwife · Super Moderator Joined: 30 May 2003 Posts: 1592

Hi Vinu,

The new versions are the way the Vendor introduces improvements and new features to its customer base. It's also a way to easily identify what the vendor will support or not support.

The lastest is Enterprise Cobol. You can determine what compiler you're using and its version by checking the heading of the compiler listing after you have run a compile of your pgm.

You can find the latest compiler in use for your vendor by visiting their web site from time to time.