Many programmers keep a loose eye on the TIOBE Language Index table which gives an indication of the popularity of programming languages based on the results returned using the Google, MSN, Yahoo!, and YouTube search engines. This index is not without its controversy and the index and ratings are calculated on debatable terms however it is what it is. After Borland began to destroy spin-off delphi and Codegear the ratings dipped to an all time low.

However as the seasons change so did Delphi’s fortunes. The Delphi programming index has been rising which may or may not be related to the much improved Delphi 2009 release. Whilst we can only draw very haphazard conclusions as to what this means but in my mind it can only be a good thing in so far as it will give Delphi a much needed PR Boost.  

As a keen examiner of this raise Jim McKeeth of the excellent Podcast at Delphi.org has been urging the community to ensure that the search terms for which the TIOBE Index is measured on +”<language> programming” is reflected in the bulk of delphi sites. This is a very good cause and I would join Jim in urging all Delphi Programmers to update their blogs and delphi related sites to include the phrase “Delphi Programming” where suitable. This is not an attempt to game the system, we’re merely encouraging people who have a delphi related blog/site to make sure that it is counted as part of the community.

Jim has also discovered that Delphi has been put on a shortlist to be the TIOBE language of the year which would be a great coup for the community. I feel that since CodeGear found a new home with Embarcadero they have really taken on a new lease of life as we’re seeing: 

• Increased Blog Activity
• Increased Roadmap visisbility
• Massive changes in product strategy
• Less “Red Tape” surrounding what CG staff can talk about

I genuinely feel that we can start to make a fight back for Delphi and see if we can get some new life in the community!