How do you know when to change programming languages?

To start with any project we need to know the intended users for it, either it is a mobile app or web app. if we want to build mobile app and web app for a project then we can choose React and React Native for app development as it will save 70% of repetitive efforts for building a mobile app. if we want to develop only mobile app than we can use Kotlin for Android and swift for iOS and also we can use flutter as well for both. if I am talking about backend development we can use Python if we want to integrate ML models in our application. we can use Node.js if we want to build a lightweight application, realtime application, we can use Java for handling complex data and for security purpose.

Deciding to change programming languages depends on several factors. Consider functional requirements, performance limitations, community support, scalability, and the learning curve. If your current language lacks necessary features, underperforms, has limited support, or hampers future growth, a switch may be needed. Assess the costs, benefits, team expertise, and potential for a smooth transition. Carefully evaluate these factors to make an informed decision that aligns with project needs and long-term goals.

Develop the ability to switch programming languages swiftly based on project needs. Adaptability is key; different projects may require different languages.

Let the universe decide for you! Climb to the top of a mountain and declare “UNIVERSE! I leave this important decision to your wisdom! When you send me a sign, I will know it is time to change programming languages! Let that sign be whenever I see a blue car! Let this be our covenant!”

Yes it is all project related. Depending on what project needs a language or languages are chosen. Keep in mind that it is not a final selection as one may prototype in one language to show what it can look like and switch to another language for the actual product.

Keep performance front and center. The language you choose should be capable of meeting your project's current and future performance demands.

?Consider the performance and scalability requirements of your project when deciding on a programming language. ?For handling large data or requests, choose compiled languages like C or Rust over interpreted ones like Python or Ruby. Opt for languages like Java or Go if your project demands support for concurrent or parallel programming, as opposed to those relying on a single event loop, such as JavaScript or Python.

Apart from the most intense applications, performance is likely similar enough across most languages to suffice everyone’s needs. So consider performance from a different angle; consider it from developer performance. Do your applications go from concept to complete faster with Python than Rust, JS or Java? Keep that in mind as well!

Check if the new language and it’s supporting features can run with your operating system(s). Do your research regarding licenses, support, and patent protection.

?When considering a new programming language, assess the learning curve and its impact on productivity and code quality. A language with a familiar syntax can ease the transition, while one offering more features and abstractions can enhance productivity and reduce errors. However, be mindful of potential challenges, including debugging, testing, deployment, and maintenance, associated with learning and adopting a new language.

Probably support is the most common fact that make people change of programming language. Usually it could happen most often in legacy systems but if you are working in some language that still has support it will be useful for several years. When its support is discontinued then you can start thinking on move into another language.

Seen it before: don’t choose a programming language based on how smart it makes you look. If nobody is using it - why on earth are you? For a very specific feature or capability? If not, stop! You always should be thinking of the “next person” because sometimes that next person could be you!

I remember when I was learning ruby in 2022, I faced the hardest time to find resources. Community is one of the key criteria to choose between tech stacks. If the stach has a low community support, and unstable, run away.

A thriving community can be your lifeline. It means more resources, faster problem-solving, and access to a wealth of pre-built solutions.

This is very true, C was my first favorite language but due to lack of a strong community, then I was unable to do a lot with it as compared to Java which had a strong community. So yes, being able to reach out to the community when you need that support does come in handy when you want to venture into a new programming language.

This is a bit tricky because, at times, we are required to change languages due to management or work needs. For instance, my favorite language was Java before Android decided we should all start using Kotlin, so what this meant was that now I had to learn a new language or be faced out. Three years in, I feel more comfortable with the new language but reluctant to return to Java. So, if you encounter the same issue, embrace the change and know that, as engineers, our journey involves always learning.

Don't underestimate the power of personal satisfaction. If you're genuinely enjoying and feeling comfortable with a language, it can boost your motivation and confidence, leading to better work. On the other hand, using a language that doesn't align with your preferences or values can diminish enthusiasm and trust in your projects. Prioritize satisfaction in your choice; it's a valuable asset.

?When evaluating programming languages, consider personal preferences and satisfaction. Working with a language you enjoy and feel comfortable with boosts motivation and confidence. Alignment with your values and goals brings fulfillment and pride in your code. Conversely, using a disliked or frustrating language may diminish enthusiasm and trust, while a language conflicting with your values can reduce overall satisfaction and respect for your work...

Please introduce me to a person who’s left a job because they “hate the language they’re using” or would “prefer to code in X vs Y” (at least, of the big four - Python, c#, js and s Java) This is far less important than any other item on this list.

It all comes down to cost versus benefit. Compare the pros and cons of your current and potential languages, factoring in time, money, and effort. Consider the opportunity costs and risks, including how this decision might affect your career and reputation. Choose the language that maximizes benefits and minimizes costs for your project and your own growth.

Make sure you have done you due diligence, checked your companies tech radar or create a technology matrix to assess the potential of new language and what the costs and benefits are

Consider the pros and cons of your selection before proceeding to switch. This rings true for frameworks as well as languages. Switching from one language or framework to another needs to be a deliberate action. Something considered for a while and not done on a whim. Ensuring there is a good sized community backing with resources available for problem solving. Whether switching is a personal or business choice you should always consider the talent pool size. Smaller pool sizes means higher salaries but a lower amount of career opportunities.

Intelligence is to know when to change the programming language and wisdom is to decide, do I really need to change? Programming language is just a medium to convert your thoughts into code so focus on Skills. It's not that hard to learn the basics and syntax of a programming language.

For me, it's whenever the one I'm using drops off the "Top 5 Most In Demand Programming Languages" list and I'm in need a raise.

Choosing to switch programming languages should be a well-considered decision, influenced by various factors. These factors include project requirements, performance bottlenecks, maintenance difficulties, team proficiency, community support, emerging technology trends, cost considerations, language longevity, and compatibility with existing systems. It's crucial to assess how a language change aligns with your project's goals and long-term success.

First and foremost we check the technical requirements and the best language for the job. Secondly performance is this the best language for this type of project. Then the documentation and community. Languages that have a good community and widely supported will always rank higher than those with poor documentation.