The future of Fortran

Fortran has been with us for a long time. It was the first computer language to be standardized (in 1966) and has since been revised three times (Fortran 77, Fortran 90, and Fortran 95). The Fortran 90 revision was major; those of Fortran 77 and Fortran 95 were relatively minor. Almost all compilers now implement Fortran 95. The next revision, Fortran 2000, will be major. Its principal features were chosen in 1997, taking into account the requirements of users (as expressed through their national bodies). The delay was caused by the task's magnitude and the fact that the work is done by a small number of volunteers. Final publication is expected next year after two more stages of consultation, which are designed to ensure that it has international consensus.