04

4th Generational Language

(4GL)
Database Language
Or
Very High-Level Language
 What is fourth generation
language?
● It was developed by IBM or
International Business Machines.
● It was based on the Structured Query
Language.
● It is also known as domain specific
language or high productivity
language.
Continue
Characteristics
1. Programmer Friendly
2. Uses English-like words,
expressions, and phrases
3. Uses graphics, symbols,
and icons in performing
programming processes
4. Develops more
programmers
5. Reduces cost, time and
effort
Application
1. Web development and
design
2. Report generation
3. Data analysis,
manipulation, query and
reporting
4. Database application and
queries
5. Graphical User Interface
(GUI) generation
 Examples of 4GL

● IBM’s ADRS2
● APL
● CSP and AS
● Powerbuilder
● Access and Structured
Query Language (SQL)
**Advantages of 4th Generation Languages (4GLs):**

1. **High Abstraction:** 4GLs provide a high level of abstraction, making it easier for users to work with databases without needing extensive programming knowledge. This abstraction simplifies comple
database operations.

2. **Productivity:** They enable faster application development. With their focus on database-related tasks, 4GLs reduce the amount of code that needs to be written, speeding up the development proce

3. **Readability:** 4GLs often use English-like syntax, making the code more readable and understandable for both programmers and non-programmers.

4. **Efficiency:** These languages are optimized for database operations, which means they can often perform database tasks more efficiently than lower-level languages.

5. **Report Generation:** Many 4GLs include built-in tools for generating reports from databases, which is particularly useful for business and data analysis.

**Disadvantages of 4th Generation Languages (4GLs):**

1. **Limited Functionality:** While excellent for database-related tasks, 4GLs may be limited in their ability to perform general-purpose programming. They may not be suitable for complex algorithms or t
outside the database domain.

2. **Platform Dependence:** Some 4GLs are closely tied to specific database management systems, making it challenging to switch databases or migrate to different platforms.

3. **Vendor Lock-In:** Users may become dependent on a specific 4GL and the associated vendor's tools and support, making it harder to switch to alternative solutions.

4. **Learning Curve:** Although easier than lower-level languages, 4GLs still require some learning and understanding of database concepts and the specific 4GL syntax.

5. **Performance:** For certain performance-critical applications, 4GLs may not be as efficient as lower-level languages, as they may introduce some overhead due to their high-level nature.

In summary, 4GLs are powerful tools for simplifying and accelerating database-related tasks, but their suitability depends on the specific requirements of the project. They excel in scenarios where datab
manipulation and reporting are central but may not be the best choice for all types of programming task s.
 Thanks!
Does anyone have any questions?
addyouremail@freepik.com
+91 620 421 838
yourwebsite.com

CREDITS: This presentation template was created by Slidesgo, including icons by

Flaticon, and infographics & images by Freepik

Please keep this slide for attribution