Perl programming, for both offline workstation applications and new web-based initiatives, has become a very useful tool for many programmers. Some call it a "glue" or "tape" programming language that helps provide fixes for bugs or specific modules that facilitate extra features in a program.

As a result, lots of tech-based businesses include Perl programming in their list of qualifications at interview. But if your business is Perl-challenged, you have several options in getting more Perl programmers and Perl developers to the table. Business operators might use Perl programming services in the following situations:

1. When the complexity of your company's web-based applications has just begun to creep beyond what your in-house people can deal with.

2. For bold new "bug control" or product-fix initiatives that need all hands on deck, plus a few more.

3. For routine development and maintenance of programs that utilize Perl programming as a convenient way to code information handling processes.

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

Get a 'hired keyboard' Perl programmer

If you're looking for a dedicated Perl developer professional for small to medium jobs, online networking sites will get you hooked up with someone to collaborate on projects.

I recommend: MISDivision offers Perl programmer contacts who will work hourly for reasonable rates. The online site offers other resources like remote management and handling of confidentiality issues for your Perl projects. For other Perl programmers, try Guru.com's searchable site where freelancers will sign onto your projects.

Get overall Perl programming consulting for difficult projects or new growth

If your needs for Perl computer programming go well beyond what your office is set up for, look for specialized Perl consulting groups who can take over a lot of the planning and administration of Perl development services for specific projects.

I recommend: Stonehenge professional group is dedicated to getting Perl programming services and solutions for business clients. The site offers a wealth of Perl-related resources, from consulting to training, and Stonehenge offers a variety of classes and lists books that will ramp up your staff's Perl knowledge. For other Perl development services consulting, try Revolution Systems, where professionals specialize in using the "agile language" of Perl on diverse project types.

Find online Perl programming tutorials

If your in-house Perl developers are just about able to do the job, they might need a little extra boost. Online vendors offer Perl tutorials and guides that can help your own staff go through the ins and outs of control structures, variable assignments and tricky Perl syntax problems.

I recommend: Find tons of Perl tutorials and resources on the Perl Beginners' Site. Find Perl books for sale online at O'Reilly Media.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Make good programming choices: rather than trying to use Perl programming for everything, talk to your staff about what needs Perl-type fixes and what programs could use a total overhaul to web-based or graphic interface upgrades.