The trend has been there. It was a mere two years ago when we mentioned that Python was on the heels of Java. And, we wanted to see a few consistent quarters with it being the case to make sure it was not a temporary surge. The data has shown unequivocally that Python is now the most dominant language. In a world where the new guard always seems to get press, it is an old stalwart that has fended off the up-and-coming crowd.
The first data collection that showed this revelation happened in January of 2019. At that time, Python and Java were nose-to-nose in the results. Over the course of the last year (four quarters), each quarter for Java remained stagnant. A plus-minus of 100 was the outcome. While not losing too much ground, not gaining any either. Meanwhile, those same four quarters have resulted in plus 500 for Python. Needless to say, it remains in growth mode.
Based on its architecture, Python has shown that it is very adaptable to new market dynamics. With the focus today on such things as machine learning and artificial intelligence, it is Python that has dominated the space. This on top of the base that it has had in DevOps and general IT infrastructure. The flexibility that this language demonstrates has allowed it to permeate all aspects of development and operations.
As with everything, nobody knows exactly how long this trend will continue. However, based on the time is has been available to developers and its previously mentioned flexibility, one could assume that the trend will continue for the foreseeable future. It has the knack to find it in nearly every nook and cranny. Well done to all of the developers who have contributed to this language over the years. Another example of FLOSS shining over its proprietary counterparts!