Re: free-format move *USA date value to 6-digit numeric in YMDfor mat

[Booth Martin <booth@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I wonder what the typical cycle is for desired new changes to be widely 
adopted?  How long did it take for the op code "eval" to be used widely? 
 A couple of years?  Four?

Fisher, Don wrote:
> I don't know about that.
>
> If I use some convoluted set of built-in functions to convert a date to a
> numeric in release X, that technique will continue to work in all future
> releases.  Converting to any new enhancements is my option.  I can decide I
> don't want to look at new enhancements to RPG except when version VXR1 comes
> out or at each release.  
>
> As for learning, it seems to me that one would teach the latest release and
> point out that earlier releases may not support the same conversions and
> that the manual for the release should be consulted.  That does make it
> difficult for a newbie to become productive at an employer that's three or
> more releases behind, but if everybody is current, or close to it, then this
> possibility becomes nearly moot.  The difficulty is getting companies to
> realize the value, if any, in staying current.
>
> Constant changes do make writing books difficult, though. :)
>
> Donald R. Fisher, III
> Project Manager
> Roomstore Furniture Company
> (804) 784-7600 extension 2124
> DFisher@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
>
>
> <clip>
> In my view, IBM is making RPG IV harder and harder to learn use, and in
> which to develop products. This can only add up to only one outcome...
> <clip>