D programming language

DIS prototype is currently developped in C++ with Microsoft's Visual Studio C++ IDE. This is because it is a very reliable IDE and has the best debugger I know and at this stage of development debugging plays an important role.

I could have used Java, with Eclipse as IDE, which is as good, and even better on some aspects; an impressive master piece of IBM. But I first need a library for compiled code to be used on servers. I also have the impression that it is easier to translate C++ code into Java than the opposite. C# is on my list, but I need an OS independent language and totally free to use. As far as I know it is currently not the case.

So, the D programming language is very close to the top of my list. This language has very attractive features and I foresee a brilliant future to it. But, as Java in its very early days, D is laking a good IDE with accurate debugging support. The other weakness is its documentation, but this shouldn't last long.

It has all the features one would expect from a modern programming language and I have just learned about the scope keyword and its purpose. This is great. Read this article for a clear and detailed explanation on its purpose and usage.

Another interesting feature is its support of the SWT library called DWT. It makes it easy to implement a portable GUI application. You can also very easily use your pet C library with D. The reverse should be possible but it is not clear yet how to do this. It would be interesting for people developping libraries in D and keep them usable with C or C++. Something I would need.