COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) is a compiled programming language designed for business data processing. Created in 1959, it was one of the first high-level programming languages and pioneered the use of English-like syntax. Despite its age, COBOL remains in active use today, processing an estimated 95% of ATM transactions and 80% of in-person transactions globally.
Origins
In 1959, the U.S. Department of Defense sponsored a conference to develop a common business programming language. The CODASYL (Conference on Data Systems Languages) consortium brought together computer manufacturers, government agencies, and users[1].
Grace Hopper’s earlier work on FLOW-MATIC, one of the first English-like programming languages, heavily influenced COBOL’s design. Her vision of programming in words rather than symbols became COBOL’s defining characteristic.
Design Philosophy
COBOL was revolutionary in its approach[2]:
- English-like syntax: Programs read almost like English prose, making them accessible to business managers
- Self-documenting: The verbose syntax serves as built-in documentation
- Machine independence: Programs could run on different manufacturers’ computers
- Business focus: Built-in support for decimal arithmetic and record processing
A simple COBOL statement like ADD HOURS-WORKED TO TOTAL-HOURS was radically more readable than equivalent assembly code.
Impact
COBOL transformed business computing:
- Democratized programming: Business analysts could understand and even write code
- Standardization: Multiple ANSI/ISO standards ensured portability
- Longevity: Programs written in the 1960s still run today
Modern Relevance
Despite predictions of its demise, COBOL remains critical infrastructure[3]:
- 220 billion lines of COBOL code remain in active use
- Major banks, insurance companies, and government agencies depend on COBOL systems
- The COVID-19 pandemic exposed shortages of COBOL programmers when unemployment systems became overwhelmed
COBOL’s longevity demonstrates both its robust design and the challenge of replacing mission-critical systems.
Sources
- Computer History Museum. “COBOL is 65 Years Old.” History of COBOL’s development and the CODASYL consortium.
- Wikipedia. “COBOL.” Comprehensive overview of COBOL’s design and features.
- Reuters. “Wanted urgently: People who know a half century-old computer language.” 2020 article on COBOL’s continued critical role.