COBOL programming language actually has business in its name. The acronym stands for Common Business-Oriented language. COBOL dates back to those heady days of the 1960s, and looking at its syntax, you can tell it's gone before the streamlined coding structures of today's C++ and Visual Basic. COBOL utilizes a common logical syntax, but with a lot of spelled-out words for operators, variables and commands.

Business operators still use COBOL developers and COBOL development services for a variety of projects across many industries. The COBOL programming language is still a popular choice for use in:

1. long-standing "tried and true" COBOL programming that doesn't need a lot of upgrades, since the basic uses have not changed in decades.

2. COBOL programs that would be too expensive to re-write and work just fine the way they are.

3. procedural programming that is not tied to a new interface or complex system.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Hire COBOL developers

In today's highly networked business world, you can find COBOL programmers for hire over the Internet through sites designed to link up freelancers and corporate or business clients. Browse profiles and prices and select a freelancer who will help you get or keep your COBOL programming assignment running.

I recommend: The oDesk site offers programmers for a range of languages including COBOL. With dozens of COBOL developer's posted profiles, you can choose from COBOL programming services and professionals across the world by rate and experience. Get mainframe programmers in languages including COBOL at iFreelance.

Get COBOL programming services

For your long-term use of COBOL programs, some companies can help you maintain your program structure and keep your COBOL operations running smoothly. Find consulting help to fine-tune or massage your existing programs to keep up with any changes that may occur.

I recommend: Micro Focus COBOL developers help business clients deal with their "legacy" systems. Get general COBOL development services at ILS International, where a cosmopolitan group of COBOL programmers are represented and clients can find a range of solutions.

Look for help migrating COBOL programming

If it is finally time to get that old COBOL structure into a new platform, try getting help from consultants and development services to replace COBOL with newer languages.

I recommend: Softwaremining offers loads of COBOL programming resources for migration and upgrades. Progeni Corporation focuses on COBOL programming services, with experience in Y2K upgrades and similar solutions.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Be clear in what you're looking for. With COBOL programming, try to be aware of which programs you want maintained and which ones you would like to see upgraded to modern languages. Any ambiguity on this point, and your hired help will become understandably confused. If possible, get your in-house people to consult first, and explain situations so that when an outsider gets involved, that person has clear direction.