The following abstract is copied from the file NETREXX.ABS that is part of the NetRexx package:
NetRexx language abstract = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = = Copyright ( c ) IBM Corporation , 1996 , 1997 . All rights reserved . Introduction NetRexx is a new programming language derived from both Rexx and Java ( tm ) ; the rules of syntax closely follow those of Rexx , while the semantics often follow Java . It is intended as a dialect of Rexx that can be as efficient and portable as Java , while preserving the low threshold to learning of the original Rexx language . Further , the language is intended to be even more keyword safe than Rexx : it should be possible to re - compile or execute an existing NetRexx program _ from source _ at any time without additions to the keywords known to the language invalidating an existing program . Like Rexx , NetRexx is designed to allow clear separation of its concepts , so it may be introduced gradually . Also like Rexx , sensible defaults are defined to aid ease of use - - especially for the novice programmer . These defaults can be turned off for the programmer who needs stricter type - checking and certain other features . The Java virtual machine environment is assumed to be a platform for NetRexx , and this places some constraints on the NetRexx language . For example , the semantics of type resolution are in part determined by the environment , not the language . The constraints of efficiency , safety , and environment implied that this language would have to differ in some details of syntax and semantics from Rexx ; it could not be a fully upwards - compatible extension to Rexx . The need for change , however , has offered the opportunity to make some simplifications and enhancements to the language to strengthen the original Rexx design , and incorporate other additions from ANSI Rexx and Object Rexx . Mike Cowlishaw IBM Fellow
Up-to-date information and a downloadable copy is available at the NetRexx Home page (see Internet - Web Pages). NetRexx is IBM EWS Software.
(see also Rexx2Nrx)