PROGRAM TRANSLATION VIEWED AS A GENERAL DATA PROCESSING PROBLEM (1966)


Comm. ACM 9(3): 176-179, 1966.


Abstract

Efficiency dictates that the overall effectiveness of a compiler be increased by all means available. For a compiler to have a substantial useful life it needs a clear logical structure, reliability and sound data processing techniques. A compiler must be based on fixed conventions to preserve efficiency and reliability; empty options and default conventions violate this dictum. Use of structure to associate various parts of a program and economy of features promote clarity and reliability.