RE: Extract number from character field(Perl syntax)

>Actually, the RPG example below looks like gibberish to me too.  I've never
>had to use internally described files.  I'll have to paste it into SEU and
>see what some of that stuff means. <g>
>
>I do agree with your real point about not everything being self explanatory
>when the reader/viewer lacks necessary background information.  It is a
>little scary reading code that uses symbols available on most keyboards that
>you're not sure how to pronounce.  Reminds me of the Arthur C Clarke thing
>about any sufficiently advanced technology looking like magic.


I think I've seen just about every programming language (including RPG and
COBOL) described as 'self-documenting.'  AAARrrRRrgggggghhhh!!!

>Does the code with the fewest keystrokes always execute the fastest?

No.  And, unless the 'fewest keystrokes' is also readable and documented,
it's worthless to anyone about 5 minutes after it's in production.

--Paul E Musselman
PaulMmn@ix.netcom.com


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