The evolution of a language standard: MUMPS in the 1980s

In 1977 the MUMPS Language Standard was approved as an American National Standard (X11.1-1977) by ANSI. The specification of the MUMPS Standard was carried out by the MUMPS Development Committee, which continues to direct the evolution of the language. This paper traces the standardization process from its inception in 1973 to the present, stressing the enhancements made to MUMPS since 1977. Features which will be included in the proposed 1982 MUMPS Standard are discussed, as well as other extensions currently being considered. A number of areas in which future changes may be made are also mentioned. These include not only simple additional functional capabilities, but also possible fundamental revisions needed to keep MUMPS in step with the technology of the 1980s. Finally, some of the lessons learned about the process of language standardization are described.