Hacker News Reader

Comment by zak_mc_kracken | Hacker News Reader

Scala is certainly worth studying for a bit (like most languages, I'd say), you should just not plan on being able to use it professionally (like most languages).

View on HN

I studied Scala with the express intent of working professionally with Scala; then I went looking and found a job writing Scala. Its not an academic language at all.

If LinkedIn is any indication there is absolutely no shortage of open professional Scala positions.

LinkedIn just announced they were stopping to use Scala and focusing on Java 8 instead. Good luck getting a Scala job there :)

Why are you so negative on Scala? Better yet, why are you so unequivocally negative on any programming language?

Like every language, Scala has strengths and weaknesses. It makes sense for some teams and not for others. Why don't we debate how its strengths and weaknesses can best be managed and understood rather than just pointing out one company that decided some aspect of the language didn't make sense for them.

When there's lack of objective direct information, the evidence of adoption or "churn" might be a good substitute: http://www.quora.com/Is-LinkedIn-getting-rid-of-Scala Of course, it's difficult to judge LinkedIn's motives but it certainly raises valid questions and concerns.

There is objective and direct information. Study the language and it's libraries. Then look at your needs and make a judgement based on reason. There is no other way around this. You could look at other companies experience but then you would need a large sample size and detailed analysis of why they succeeded or failed. Using a sample size of one web company you might as well study the entrails of a dog and you will get the same results if you make technical decisions like this.

I actually had _no idea_ LinkedIn used Scala until I read further down this thread. I am referring to, of course, the large number of contact requests I receive from recruiters about open Scala positions.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com