Scala is a powerful high-quality programming language for Java virtual machines (JVM) that offers a safe path to high-performance and scalable systems. However, it is not suitable for everyone.

In 2009, Scala received its first big breakthrough when Twitter began adopting it to avoid the failures of the past. The appearance of Apache Spark in 2013 gave Scala an enormous boost. According to TIOBE’s index, Scala climbed to the 20th position in 2018. In today’s Redmonk ranking, it ranks 14th.

In recent months, there has been an increase in interest in Scala training among large banks and corporations. Likewise, a language should not be judged by its popularity, but by its suitability.

What makes Scala so special?

Java developers can leverage the investments already made in the various JVMs available to Scala developers. Imperative vs. functional programming is the approach employed here.

An imperative means you’re telling the computer exactly what to do. A collection of elements (group of elements) are processed by starting an index (usually at 0), incrementing it, pointing it to the next component of the group, then processing that component.

In contrast, you write a function for each element in the collection that explains what you want to do with it.

Imperatively, you let the software engineer interpret what he needs to achieve into code. Functionally, you grant the computer the equation. Presently the compiler, not the software engineer, clarifies what to do.

What makes Akka so special?

Computers today have many CPU cores (processors), eight or sixteen, that boost your code’s performance. But writing code for multiple threads is challenging. If your code doesn’t follow certain rules, your threads will occasionally crash and collide.

In Scala, the framework Akka abstracts programmers from the complexity of thread coordination by giving them simple objects called Actors. These Actors execute their own functions, and Akka translates them into threads. 

Tesla, PayPal, Verizon, and Starbucks are among the companies using Akka’s high-performance backends, according to Lightbend. 

Best methods of Scala 

After learning more about Scala and working in Akka, I have seen a glimpse of Scala’s potential. I predict it will boom as more companies become aware of the developments described above.

 There are several of Scala’s best methods. Let’s take a look:

•       Utilize both the functional and object-oriented aspects of Scala.   
•       Designed to solve your problem.
•       You will get cleaner code and fewer bugs if you use mostly clear functions (those without side effects).
•       For multi-thread programming consider libraries such as Monix, Cats, and Akka.

 The thing to keep in mind is that Scala is not an instant gratification language like Python, but one that is delayed. Tip: for significant upgrades and guidelines, consider the review of Scala Cookbook by Alvin Alexander for more guidelines.

We know now how Scala works and what its advantages are, after more than a decade of using it. 

The language will be beneficial for those who examine it and find the appropriate use cases in their organizations now.