Re: Well known application that use Perl

One should realize that for many companies Perl is just a tool, and while they may require of prefer knowledge of Perl from candidates for certain positions, they don't hire "Perl programmers". Just like companies may hire "carpenters" instead of people able to work with a hammer. While working with a hammer is a fine skill for a carpenter, being able to work with a hammer isn't sufficient for being hired as a carpenter.

In the past 10 years, I've worked for a handful of companies, in even more positions. In each position, I've used Perl, and Perl has made my work easier. But except for a 10 week gig, I've never been hired as a Perl programmer, nor was Perl knowledge necessary to land the job.

Abigail

Comment on Re: Well known application that use Perl

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Re: Re: Well known application that use Perl by arden (Curate) on Jan 06, 2004 at 20:23 UTC
I'll have to agree with Abigail-II too. I currently use perl, VB, VC++, tcsh, PowerBuilder (yes, I think we're the ONLY shop in the Air Force still using it, but we do), and InstallShield. When any new task comes up, the first question I ask myself is, "How can I do this in perl?" followed by, "Would it be quicker to code and more efficient on the CPU to use something else?" Then I make my case for doing it in perl (usually with a prototype already built in perl) to the management, assuming the answer to the latter question isn't a resounding yes. I'm slowly getting perl into the business rules here (it didn't exist around here before I showed up). The key to any good resume is showing experience and flexibility. Again, the key used around here before I showed up was PowerBuilder, which I had absolutely no experience in (not that I claim any experience with it 18 months later), but I got the job because of experience and a shown flexibility to learn. Having said that, it's neat to find out that Amazon uses perl along with BankOne and MasterCard. I already knew about Motorola, along with Boeing, Lockheed Martin, GE, and General Dynamics.	[reply]
Re: Re: Re: Well known application that use Perl by Mr. Muskrat (Canon) on Jan 07, 2004 at 01:48 UTC
The Air Force uses Perl? That's cool! Just don't get crazy and code up something like Nukem or Weapons::MassDestruction. ;-)	[reply]
Re: Re: Well known application that use Perl by kutsu (Priest) on Jan 06, 2004 at 16:06 UTC
I have to agree with Abigail-II on this one. In my current job I use perl, VB, Java, C++, ksh, and Cobol (yes even Cobol) depending on the project. I use perl more then anything at the moment, but will occasionally go for weeks or a month without perl. Knowing perl is great, knowing serveral other languages to diversify your resume is better. Of course, if you manage to convince your boss that perl is the best tool for every job, good for you :) "Pain is weakness leaving the body, I find myself in pain everyday" -me	[reply]