Google Summer of Code 2009 ideas

Tentative mentors

• Doug Coleman
• Joe Groff
• Slava Pestov

Overview

A language implementation, such as Factor, is a microcosm of computer science, and the project includes everything from compilers, to garbage collection, to internationalization and user interface design. Because Factor is mostly implemented in itself, students who study it can learn how an entire self-contained language system works. Factor is both more advanced than scripting languages, and has a simpler implementation than the Java VM, making it ideal for study.

Compiler

• Port Factor to ARM
• Port Factor to Sparc64
• Port Factor to PowerPC 64
• More advanced compiler optimizations
• Add SIMD primitives
• Generating shared libraries

Libraries

• Factor VFS
• SSL on Windows
• Audio and video libraries
• Improve database library
• Improve XML library
• Improve Unicode library
• Support more calendars

Desktop

• Drag and drop
• Improve UI performance
• Input methods support
• Windows Unicode font rendering

Web

• Work on Furnace
• Spruce up web apps
• Blog web app
• Listener and inspector web apps