Functional benchmarks for fourth generation languages
Martha Mulford Gray, G E. Fisher · 1991
In recent years, fourth generation language (4GL) usage has expanded in data processing organizations, especially where end-users have assumed increased programming responsibilities.Since there are no 4GL standards, managers selecting a 4GL need some method of determining how well a particular 4GL will meet organizational, application, and user requirements.This report provides a methodology to assist in that determination.It contains "functional benchmarks" (as opposed to performance benchmarks) consisting of a testing methodology and descriptions of tests to evaluate the capabilities of a particular 4GL in relation to organizational requirements.Test results are evaluated at two levels^: the 4GL's ability to perform a task, and the ease of performing it.These evaluations are combined with user-defined weighted requirements to produce an overall rating for each 4GL tested. B. Ability to specify file security