Jekyll2023-08-21T01:45:25+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/feed.xmlA Programmer’s DreamYet more Geek ruminations to clutter up the internets.
Stephen WrightonFrom Code to the Boardroom: How my experience as a .NET programmer shaped my executive decisions2023-08-20T00:00:00+00:002023-08-20T00:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2023/08/From-Code-to-the-Boardroom<p>In an ever-evolving technological landscape, the lines between technical know-how and managerial expertise blur. For many, like myself, the journey from coding in .NET to making executive decisions is an enlightening experience, illuminating how programming concepts can greatly influence and benefit corporate leadership.</p>
<h2 id="the-world-of-net-more-than-just-code">The World of .NET: More than Just Code</h2>
<p>.NET is not just a framework; it’s a universe of possibilities. My initial years in .NET taught me the intricacies of software development and the broader impact it has on businesses. The ability to translate a business requirement into executable code was my first lesson in understanding the connection between technical execution and business objectives.</p>
<h2 id="core-principles-of-programming-and-their-management-analogues">Core Principles of Programming and Their Management Analogues</h2>
<p>Programming is built on principles—DRY (Don’t Repeat Yourself), KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid), and SOLID, to name a few. Similarly, management has its set of principles. For instance, the DRY principle reminds us of the value of efficiency in management, ensuring tasks are not redundant.</p>
<h2 id="debugging-in-net-vs-problem-solving-in-management">Debugging in .NET vs Problem-Solving in Management</h2>
<p>Debugging code is all about identifying and rectifying errors. In the boardroom, I’ve come to see problems as “bugs” in the system. Just as I’d diagnose a code malfunction, I’ve learned to troubleshoot business challenges with a logical and systematic approach.</p>
<h2 id="the-value-of-continuous-learning-in-both-realms">The Value of Continuous Learning in Both Realms</h2>
<p>.NET, like all technologies, evolves. Continuous learning is crucial. Similarly, in management, the business world is in constant flux. Staying updated with industry trends, customer preferences, and new methodologies is paramount to effective leadership.</p>
<h2 id="building-a-collaborative-team-from-coders-to-c-suite">Building a Collaborative Team: From Coders to C-Suite</h2>
<p>Programming, especially in large projects, is a team effort. Collaborating with fellow coders taught me the importance of leveraging individual strengths for a common goal. This lesson was invaluable when forming executive teams, ensuring diverse skill sets and perspectives are brought to the table.</p>
<h2 id="scalability-from-software-design-to-business-expansion">Scalability: From Software Design to Business Expansion</h2>
<p>A good .NET application is designed for scalability. Similarly, in the corporate world, ensuring that business models, processes, and strategies are scalable is vital for sustainable growth.</p>
<h2 id="how-code-reviews-transformed-my-approach-to-feedback">How Code Reviews Transformed My Approach to Feedback</h2>
<p>Code reviews in .NET development ensure code quality. In the boardroom, feedback serves a similar purpose, ensuring decision quality. Embracing feedback, both positive and critical, became a cornerstone of my leadership style.</p>
<h2 id="risk-management-from-software-vulnerabilities-to-business-threats">Risk Management: From Software Vulnerabilities to Business Threats</h2>
<p>In .NET development, understanding potential vulnerabilities is crucial. In management, being aware of business threats, both internal and external, and devising strategies to mitigate them is a significant part of risk management.</p>
<h2 id="adapting-to-change-lessons-from-net-framework-evolutions">Adapting to Change: Lessons from .NET Framework Evolutions</h2>
<p>.NET’s evolution over the years, from .NET Core to .NET 5 and beyond, taught me adaptability. In the boardroom, adapting to market changes, industry shifts, and new challenges is vital for survival and growth.</p>
<h2 id="embracing-innovation-how-coding-fuels-forward-thinking-leadership">Embracing Innovation: How Coding Fuels Forward-Thinking Leadership</h2>
<p>Coding is inherently about creating, innovating, and improving. These values, instilled in me as a .NET developer, became the foundation of my leadership approach, always seeking better, more innovative solutions for business challenges.</p>
<h2 id="faqs">FAQs</h2>
<ol>
<li><strong>How has .NET programming directly influenced your leadership style?</strong><br />
Programming has taught me systematic thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and continuous learning—all crucial for effective leadership.</li>
<li><strong>Is a technical background necessary for executive roles?</strong><br />
While not essential, a technical background provides a unique perspective and understanding of the intricacies of the business, especially in tech-driven industries.</li>
<li><strong>What’s the biggest challenge in transitioning from a coder to an executive?</strong><br />
Shifting from a micro to a macro perspective, where you’re considering the broader impact of decisions on the entire organization.</li>
<li><strong>How do you keep up with both technical and managerial advancements?</strong><br />
Continuous learning, attending seminars, workshops, and staying connected with both the tech and business communities.</li>
<li><strong>How has your approach to risk differed between coding and leading?</strong><br />
In coding, risks are technical, like software vulnerabilities. In leadership, risks encompass broader business challenges, but the principles of identification, assessment, and mitigation remain similar.</li>
<li><strong>Are there any managerial concepts that can benefit coders?</strong><br />
Absolutely. Strategic thinking, effective communication, and big-picture thinking can greatly enhance a coder’s efficacy and career trajectory.</li>
<li><strong>What is the most valuable lesson from .NET that you’ve applied in the boardroom?</strong><br />
The importance of adaptability. Just as .NET evolves, businesses must adapt to stay relevant and competitive.</li>
<li><strong>How do you handle feedback as a leader compared to code reviews as a developer?</strong><br />
Both require an open mind, a willingness to improve, and the humility to accept and act on constructive criticism.</li>
<li><strong>How has collaboration in coding projects influenced team dynamics in executive roles?</strong><br />
It underscored the importance of diversity in skills and thought, fostering an environment where every team member’s contribution is valued.</li>
<li><strong>Do you believe other coding languages can shape leadership perspectives as .NET did for you?</strong><br />
Definitely. While the language or framework might differ, the principles of problem-solving, innovation, and systematic thinking remain consistent.</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="conclusion">Conclusion</h2>
<p>The journey from a .NET developer’s desk to the boardroom’s head seat has been transformative. While these two worlds may seem starkly different, they intertwine in ways that shape, refine, and redefine leadership. The principles I’ve learned from coding—collaboration, adaptability, innovation, and more—not only made me a better programmer but also a visionary leader. In today’s tech-centric world, the synergy between technical expertise and managerial acumen has never been more pertinent. It’s a testament to the fact that code, in all its binary simplicity, can influence</p>Stephen WrightonIn an ever-evolving technological landscape, the lines between technical know-how and managerial expertise blur. For many, like myself, the journey from coding in .NET to making executive decisions is an enlightening experience, illuminating how programming concepts can greatly influence and benefit corporate leadership.IT Strategy and the Art of Bourbon Tasting: How subtlety, nuance, and a long-term view are key to both2023-07-05T00:00:00+00:002023-07-05T00:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2023/07/Bourbon-Tasting-and-IT-Strategy<p>Gain a fresh perspective on IT strategy through the lens of bourbon tasting. Explore how patience, subtlety, and long-term planning can lead to robust IT frameworks, just as they contribute to the rich flavours of bourbon.</p>
<h2 id="the-intersection-of-it-strategy-and-bourbon-tasting">The Intersection of IT Strategy and Bourbon Tasting</h2>
<p>Much like the art of bourbon tasting, IT strategy requires a keen sense of observation, a careful assessment of various components, and a thoughtful blending of different elements. These similarities provide us with a unique lens to view and understand IT strategy better, making it more relatable and easier to grasp.</p>
<h2 id="understanding-the-basics-it-strategy-and-bourbon">Understanding the Basics: IT Strategy and Bourbon</h2>
<p>Understanding the basics is crucial, whether you’re formulating an IT strategy or getting started with bourbon tasting. Without a firm grasp of the fundamentals, it’s impossible to appreciate the subtleties and intricacies involved in both fields.</p>
<h2 id="embracing-complexity-and-nuance">Embracing Complexity and Nuance</h2>
<p>Just as a good bourbon reveals its complexity over time, so does a well-crafted IT strategy. It’s in the nuances where the real magic happens, whether it’s the slight hint of vanilla in your bourbon or the data-driven insights your IT strategy can provide.</p>
<h2 id="the-role-of-patience-in-it-strategy-and-bourbon-aging">The Role of Patience in IT Strategy and Bourbon Aging</h2>
<p>Patience plays an integral role in both IT strategy and bourbon aging. An IT strategy requires time to develop and implement, and its full potential can only be realized over time. Similarly, bourbon requires aging to develop its full range of flavors.</p>
<h2 id="long-term-planning-key-in-both-it-and-bourbon-making">Long-term Planning: Key in both IT and Bourbon Making</h2>
<p>Long-term planning is essential in both IT and bourbon making. An effective IT strategy considers future trends and anticipates potential challenges. Similarly, bourbon makers plan for years in advance, considering factors like barrel selection and aging processes.</p>
<h2 id="quality-over-quantity-lessons-from-bourbon-for-it">Quality Over Quantity: Lessons from Bourbon for IT</h2>
<p>When it comes to both bourbon and IT strategy, quality always trumps quantity. For bourbon, it’s about the richness of flavors, and in IT, it’s about choosing the right tech stack that aligns with your business needs.</p>
<h2 id="risk-management-in-it-and-bourbon-production">Risk Management in IT and Bourbon Production</h2>
<p>Risk management is an essential part of both bourbon production and IT. For bourbon makers, it could be ensuring the quality of their product, and for IT leaders, it’s about safeguarding their organization’s data and systems.</p>
<h2 id="cultivating-a-culture-of-innovation-and-experimentation">Cultivating a Culture of Innovation and Experimentation</h2>
<p>Cultivating a culture of innovation and experimentation is crucial for success in both IT and bourbon making. Bourbon makers experiment with different grains, yeast strains, and aging processes, while IT leaders encourage innovative ideas for solving business problems.</p>
<h2 id="the-importance-of-legacy-in-it-and-bourbon">The Importance of Legacy in IT and Bourbon</h2>
<p>Both IT strategy and bourbon production value legacy. Bourbon makers often uphold time-tested processes and recipes, while IT leaders build on past successes and learn from failures to shape future strategies.</p>
<h2 id="adapting-to-change-lessons-from-bourbon-for-it-strategy">Adapting to Change: Lessons from Bourbon for IT Strategy</h2>
<p>Finally, both IT strategy and bourbon tasting emphasize the need to adapt to change. As the bourbon industry evolves, connoisseurs must adapt their palate and preferences, while IT leaders must stay ahead of technological trends and changes in the business landscape.</p>
<h2 id="faqs">FAQs</h2>
<ol>
<li>
<p><strong>Why compare IT strategy and bourbon tasting?</strong><br />
While they seem distinct, both require similar skills and attitudes, including a keen eye for detail, a patient approach, and a long-term view.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>How does understanding bourbon help with IT strategy?</strong><br />
Understanding bourbon’s complexities, nuances, and aging process can provide fresh insights into how we approach and understand IT strategy.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>What is the role of patience in IT strategy and bourbon tasting?</strong><br />
In both fields, patience is key. An effective IT strategy and a good bourbon both require time to develop and reveal their full potential.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>What does long-term planning look like in both fields?</strong><br />
In IT, long-term planning involves considering future trends and potential challenges. In bourbon making, it includes decisions about barrel selection and aging processes.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>How important is quality over quantity in both contexts?</strong><br />
Quality is always more important than quantity, whether it’s the richness of bourbon flavors or the alignment of a tech stack with business needs.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>What role does risk management play in IT and bourbon production?</strong><br />
Risk management is crucial to ensure the quality of the bourbon product and safeguard an organization’s data and systems.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>How does one cultivate a culture of innovation and experimentation?</strong><br />
In both fields, encouraging new ideas and being open to experimentation are crucial for progress and success.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>What does legacy mean in IT and bourbon making?</strong><br />
Legacy involves upholding time-tested processes and learning from past successes and failures to shape future strategies.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Why is it important to adapt to change in both fields?</strong><br />
As the bourbon industry and technology landscape evolve, it’s essential to adapt in order to stay relevant and ahead of the curve.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Can these parallels between IT strategy and bourbon tasting be applied to other fields?</strong><br />
Yes, these insights can potentially be applied to any field that involves complex decision-making, long-term planning, and an appreciation of nuanced details.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="final-thoughts">Final Thoughts</h2>
<p>In conclusion, the art of bourbon tasting offers a unique perspective on IT strategy. Both require a deep understanding of subtle details, an appreciation for complexity and nuance, a focus on long-term planning, and an ability to adapt to change. By viewing IT strategy through the lens of bourbon tasting, we can learn valuable lessons about patience, quality, innovation, and legacy. This comparison reminds us that often, the best outcomes—be it a robust IT framework or a richly flavored bourbon—come from a careful blend of science, art, and time.</p>Stephen WrightonGain a fresh perspective on IT strategy through the lens of bourbon tasting. Explore how patience, subtlety, and long-term planning can lead to robust IT frameworks, just as they contribute to the rich flavours of bourbon.What IT Executives Can Learn From Anime Characters2023-06-28T00:00:00+00:002023-06-28T00:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2023/06/What-IT-Executives-Can-Learn-From-Anime-Characters<h2 id="embracing-innovation-inspired-by-anime">Embracing Innovation Inspired by Anime</h2>
<p>Just as anime breaks the boundaries of conventional storytelling, IT executives can also strive to think outside the box. From Sword Art Online’s immersive VR world to Ghost in the Shell’s cybernetic enhancements, anime’s technological concepts push the boundaries of what’s possible. Executives who adopt such visionary perspectives can lead their organizations towards transformative innovation.</p>
<h3 id="teamwork-lessons-from-naruto">Teamwork Lessons from Naruto</h3>
<p>Naruto offers valuable lessons about the power of teamwork and collaboration. Teams with diverse skills and personalities, like Team 7, can combine their unique strengths to overcome challenges. This lesson is critical for IT executives managing diverse teams, emphasizing the power of collaboration in problem-solving and innovation.</p>
<h3 id="strategic-thinking-learning-from-death-note">Strategic Thinking: Learning from Death Note</h3>
<p>Death Note’s intellectual battles teach the importance of strategic thinking and anticipating opponent’s moves. IT executives can take cues from Light Yagami’s meticulous planning to improve their strategic thinking skills, essential in managing IT projects and anticipating potential risks.</p>
<h3 id="resilience-and-adaptability-lessons-from-attack-on-titan">Resilience and Adaptability: Lessons from Attack on Titan</h3>
<p>Attack on Titan’s characters constantly adapt to survive against formidable Titans, underlining resilience and adaptability. IT executives can emulate these qualities, adjusting to rapidly evolving technologies and maintaining resilience amid setbacks.</p>
<h3 id="embracing-the-unknown-lessons-from-steinsgate">Embracing the Unknown: Lessons from Steins;Gate</h3>
<p>Steins;Gate revolves around time travel—a complex, uncertain phenomenon. IT executives can learn from the characters’ determination to embrace the unknown, an attitude beneficial in the ever-evolving tech landscape.</p>
<h3 id="lifelong-learning-insights-from-my-hero-academia">Lifelong Learning: Insights from My Hero Academia</h3>
<p>The characters of My Hero Academia constantly learn and develop their quirks. This mirrors the necessity for IT executives to pursue lifelong learning, always staying updated in a rapidly evolving tech industry.</p>
<h3 id="empathy-and-understanding-learning-from-neon-genesis-evangelion">Empathy and Understanding: Learning from Neon Genesis Evangelion</h3>
<p>In Neon Genesis Evangelion, characters grapple with personal issues and misunderstandings. IT executives can learn the importance of empathy and understanding in managing teams, promoting a healthier, more collaborative work environment.</p>
<h3 id="leadership-skills-from-fullmetal-alchemist">Leadership Skills from Fullmetal Alchemist###</h3>
<p>Edward Elric’s leadership in Fullmetal Alchemist—balancing assertiveness and compassion—can provide IT executives with a model for effective leadership, promoting productivity and harmony in their teams.</p>
<h3 id="problem-solving-approach-lessons-from-cowboy-bebop">Problem-Solving Approach: Lessons from Cowboy Bebop</h3>
<p>Cowboy Bebop’s bounty hunters face various problems in every episode, showcasing diverse problem-solving approaches. IT executives can adapt this creative problem-solving mindset, crucial for navigating complex IT issues.</p>
<h3 id="work-life-balance-insights-from-aggretsuko">Work-Life Balance: Insights from Aggretsuko</h3>
<p>Aggretsuko portrays the struggle of balancing work and personal life. It’s a gentle reminder for IT executives to maintain a healthy work-life balance, ensuring not only their wellbeing but also the long-term success of their teams.</p>
<h2 id="faqs">FAQs</h2>
<ol>
<li>
<p><strong>How can anime inspire IT executives?</strong>
Anime presents various scenarios that can inspire IT executives, from demonstrating leadership skills to emphasizing resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Is the idea of learning from anime applicable to other industries?</strong>
Absolutely! Anime can offer valuable insights for professionals across various sectors, not just in IT.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Why is teamwork emphasized in anime?</strong>
Teamwork is a central theme in many anime series, reflecting the importance of collaboration and diversity in overcoming challenges—a lesson applicable in any professional setting.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>How can IT executives improve their strategic thinking skills?</strong>
They can learn from scenarios presented in anime like Death Note, which showcases the power of meticulous planning and predicting opponent’s moves.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Why is lifelong learning essential for IT executives?</strong>
In a rapidly evolving industry like IT, staying updated with the latest advancements is crucial for growth and success.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>How can empathy influence a work environment?</strong>
Empathy promotes understanding and mutual respect among team members, fostering a healthier, more collaborative work environment.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>What kind of leadership style can IT executives learn from anime?</strong>
Anime characters like Edward Elric demonstrate a balance of assertiveness and compassion, which can inspire effective leadership.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Why is a creative problem-solving approach important in IT?</strong>
Complex IT issues require innovative solutions. A creative problem-solving approach, demonstrated in anime like Cowboy Bebop, can be beneficial.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Is work-life balance important for IT executives?</strong>
Work-life balance is crucial for every professional, including IT executives. It ensures their wellbeing and the long-term success of their teams.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Can anime be used as an educational tool?</strong>
While not traditional, anime can indeed be used as an educational tool, offering a unique perspective on various life and professional lessons.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="conclusion">Conclusion</h2>
<p>Anime does more than just entertain; it offers a wealth of lessons that can inspire and guide IT executives. From fostering innovation to promoting teamwork, strategic thinking, resilience, adaptability, lifelong learning, empathy, leadership skills, creative problem-solving, and work-life balance, anime characters provide a unique and valuable perspective. Embracing these lessons can transform IT executives into more effective and inspiring leaders in their field. So, why not take some time to watch an anime episode today? You might find more than just entertainment.</p>Stephen WrightonEmbracing Innovation Inspired by AnimeDifferences Between a Good Manager of Developers and a Good Software Developer Lead2023-06-21T00:00:00+00:002023-06-21T00:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2023/06/Differences-Manager-and-TeamLead<h2 id="introduction">Introduction</h2>
<p>In the realm of tech-based companies, two roles are critical for success: the manager of developers and the software developer lead. While they may seem similar, they carry distinctly different responsibilities and skills. This article provides an in-depth look at these differences, illuminating the unique value each role brings to a company’s growth trajectory.</p>
<h2 id="1-role-definition-and-objectives">1. Role Definition and Objectives</h2>
<p>The first significant distinction lies in the roles’ primary objectives. A manager of developers focuses on supervising and coordinating a team of developers, ensuring that they work efficiently towards the company’s goals. On the other hand, a software developer lead primarily concentrates on the technical side, leading by example and providing technical guidance to the team.</p>
<h2 id="2-required-skill-sets">2. Required Skill Sets</h2>
<p>Managers often need excellent people skills, including communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. Conversely, a software developer lead should possess superior technical skills and a deep understanding of software development principles.</p>
<h2 id="3-decision-making-processes">3. Decision-Making Processes</h2>
<p>Managers tend to make strategic decisions, such as resource allocation, hiring, and performance evaluation. In contrast, software developer leads often make technical decisions, like choosing the appropriate software or development strategy.</p>
<h2 id="4-team-interaction">4. Team Interaction</h2>
<p>Managers usually interact with their team on a broader level, focusing on teamwork, collaboration, and the overall work environment. However, software developer leads often work closely with the team on technical matters, providing guidance and addressing specific development challenges.</p>
<h2 id="5-project-management">5. Project Management</h2>
<p>A good manager oversees the entire project, monitoring timelines, budgets, and milestones. The software developer lead, on the other hand, focuses on executing the technical aspects of the project, coordinating with the team to ensure coding standards and best practices are followed.</p>
<h2 id="6-problem-solving-approach">6. Problem-Solving Approach</h2>
<p>Managers solve problems from an organizational perspective, handling issues like team dynamics or budget constraints. Software developer leads address technical problems, debugging code, and implementing solutions to technical challenges.</p>
<h2 id="7-leadership-styles">7. Leadership Styles</h2>
<p>A manager’s leadership style tends to be more directive, setting the team’s direction and monitoring performance. Conversely, a software developer lead’s style is often more participative, working alongside the team and leading by example.</p>
<h2 id="8-performance-evaluation">8. Performance Evaluation</h2>
<p>Managers are responsible for assessing the team’s performance, providing feedback, and facilitating professional development. Software developer leads, meanwhile, evaluate the technical quality of the team’s work, identifying areas for improvement and offering technical guidance.</p>
<h2 id="9-career-path-and-development">9. Career Path and Development</h2>
<p>Managers often have a background in business or management, with a path geared towards higher management roles. Software developer leads usually have a strong technical background and can grow into roles like Chief Technical Officer (CTO).</p>
<h2 id="10-company-culture-adaptation">10. Company Culture Adaptation</h2>
<p>While both roles must adapt to the company culture, managers often have a broader role in shaping and maintaining it. Software developer leads, however, contribute more specifically by fostering a culture of technical excellence within their team.</p>
<h2 id="faqs">FAQs</h2>
<ol>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Can a manager of developers also be a software developer lead?</strong></p>
<p>A: While it’s possible, these roles have distinct responsibilities. Ideally, a company should have both to ensure both managerial and technical leadership.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Who has more authority, a manager of developers or a software developer lead?</strong></p>
<p>A: Both have significant authority within their domains. However, their authority differs in nature, with the manager having more strategic authority and the developer lead having more technical authority.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Do these roles require different educational backgrounds?</strong></p>
<p>A: Not necessarily, but typically, a manager might have a background in business or management, while a developer lead would have a strong technical background.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Are the roles interchangeable?</strong></p>
<p>A: No, these roles require different skill sets and responsibilities. It’s best to have individuals specialized in each role for optimal team performance.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Who is more critical for a project’s success, the manager or the developer lead?</strong></p>
<p>A: Both roles are essential as they contribute differently to a project. The manager ensures the project is on track and within budget, while the developer lead guarantees the technical quality of the work.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: What kind of decisions do a manager of developers and a software developer lead typically make?</strong></p>
<p>A: A manager of developers generally makes strategic and organizational decisions, such as project timelines, resource allocation, and performance assessments. On the other hand, a software developer lead makes more technical decisions, like the best software or programming language to use for a particular task.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: What are the different problem-solving approaches used by a manager of developers and a software developer lead?</strong></p>
<p>A: A manager of developers usually addresses problems from a broader, organizational perspective. This could involve managing team dynamics or resolving budget constraints. Conversely, a software developer lead would tackle more technical problems, such as debugging code or devising solutions to specific development challenges.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: How do a manager of developers and a software developer lead contribute to the company culture?</strong></p>
<p>A: While both roles must adapt to and uphold the company culture, a manager often plays a broader role in defining and maintaining it. They would foster a culture of collaboration, efficiency, and growth. In contrast, a software developer lead contributes more specifically by cultivating a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning within the team.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: What’s the difference in leadership styles between a manager of developers and a software developer lead?</strong></p>
<p>A: A manager’s leadership style tends to be more directive. They set the direction for the team, establish goals, and monitor progress. On the other hand, a software developer lead often has a more participative leadership style, working alongside the team, leading by example, and offering technical guidance when necessary.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: What different skills are required for a manager of developers versus a software developer lead?</strong></p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>A: A manager of developers often needs strong people skills, such as communication, empathy, and conflict resolution. They also need to understand project management principles. A software developer lead, on the other hand, requires advanced technical skills, a deep understanding of software development principles, and the ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical issues.</p>
<h2 id="conclusion">Conclusion</h2>
<p>The differences between a good manager of developers and a good software developer lead are significant. The manager provides the strategic oversight necessary to keep projects on track, while the software developer lead is instrumental in ensuring the technical quality of the software developed. Both roles are integral to a tech-based company’s success, contributing uniquely to a project’s successful execution and the company’s overall growth.</p>Stephen WrightonIntroductionBuilding Best Practices and Procedure Documentation for Developers2023-06-14T00:00:00+00:002023-06-14T00:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2023/06/How-To-Build-Procedures-for-Developers<h2 id="how-to-build-your-documentation">How to Build Your Documentation</h2>
<p>Building best practices and procedure documentation for developers can be an involved process. However, it is critical to the success of your team and can lead to increased productivity, improved code quality, and a more harmonious working environment. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build this documentation:</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p><strong>Identify Your Objectives</strong>: First, you need to know why you’re creating the documentation. Are you trying to streamline onboarding? Do you want to standardize development practices? Is the goal to improve code quality? Knowing your objectives can help you decide what topics to cover and how to structure your document.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Define Your Audience</strong>: Understanding who will use your documentation is key to making it effective. Are you writing for seasoned developers or newcomers? Are they familiar with your company’s tech stack or not? The answers will guide your writing style, the topics you cover, and the depth of detail you provide.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Gather Input from the Team</strong>: Developers are the people who will be using the document, so it’s crucial to get their input. They can provide insights into what they struggle with, what they wish they’d known when they started, or areas where there’s a lack of consistency. This will ensure that the documentation meets their needs and is adopted by the team.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Outline the Documentation</strong>: Break down the documentation into key sections like code style guides, development workflows, testing procedures, code review processes, common problems and solutions, tool usage, etc. Depending on the complexity of your system, you may want to break it down further into subsections.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Write the First Draft</strong>: Start with the high-level overview for each section and then go into detail. Use clear, concise language and avoid jargon where possible. Use examples and screenshots where it helps to clarify a point.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Include References to External Resources</strong>: In cases where an external guide covers a topic thoroughly and accurately, there is no need to reinvent the wheel - link to these resources instead.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Review and Revise</strong>: Have others on your team review the document and provide feedback. They may find errors, unclear areas, or important topics you missed. Revise the document based on their feedback.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Keep It Up-To-Date</strong>: Development practices evolve and change, so your documentation should too. Establish a process for updating the document regularly. Make sure everyone knows how to propose changes.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Make It Accessible</strong>: The documentation should be easy to access and navigate. Consider using a platform designed for documentation, like Confluence or ReadTheDocs, and make sure all developers know where to find it.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Encourage Adoption</strong>: If developers don’t use the documentation, all your effort will be for nothing. Encourage adoption by referring to the document in meetings, during code reviews, and when helping team members. Make it a part of your team’s culture.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>By following these steps, you can create a living, breathing document that helps your developers do their best work and keeps your team operating smoothly.</p>
<h2 id="what-should-i-have-as-documentation">What Should I Have As Documentation?</h2>
<p>A comprehensive list of policies and procedures for a development team can vary based on the specific needs of the organization and the nature of the projects being developed. However, the following are some common examples:</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p><strong>Code Review Policy</strong>: Guidelines on how code should be reviewed, who should review it, and the timeline for review.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Version Control Procedure</strong>: Guidelines on how to use version control systems, such as Git, including branch naming conventions, commit message guidelines, and merge strategies.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Code Style Guide</strong>: Defines the coding style, conventions, and best practices that developers should follow to ensure consistency across the codebase.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Testing Policy</strong>: This outlines the types of tests to be written (unit tests, integration tests, etc.), when and how to write them, and the minimum acceptable test coverage.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Deployment Procedure</strong>: Detailed steps on how to deploy the software in different environments (development, staging, production), including rollback strategies.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Security Policy</strong>: This includes guidelines on secure coding practices, data protection procedures, and how to handle security incidents.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Onboarding Procedure</strong>: A guide for getting new team members up to speed on the team’s processes and the codebase.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Bug Reporting and Triage Procedure</strong>: Defines how to report bugs, who is responsible for triaging them, and the process of assigning and fixing bugs.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Performance Optimization Policy</strong>: Guidelines for maintaining and improving the performance of the code. This can include rules around load testing and profiling.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Documentation Procedure</strong>: How and when to create documentation for the code and systems, including comment style in code and the procedure for maintaining external documentation.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Disaster Recovery and Backup Policy</strong>: Defines how data is backed up, how often, who is responsible, and the procedure for recovering data in case of a disaster.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Conflict Resolution Procedure</strong>: A method for handling disagreements within the team, either related to the code or interpersonal issues.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>Remember, the specific policies and procedures can vary widely depending on the team, the work they’re doing, and the tools they’re using. It’s important to regularly review and update these policies to ensure they remain relevant and effective.</p>
<h2 id="but-why-bother">But Why Bother?</h2>
<p>Development teams should have defined policies and procedures for several reasons:</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p><strong>Consistency</strong>: When all team members follow the same procedures, it leads to consistency in the work. This makes it easier to read and maintain the code, collaborate with others, and onboard new team members.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Efficiency</strong>: Clear policies and procedures streamline the workflow by removing uncertainty. Developers know what to do and how to do it, which allows them to focus on their tasks and reduces the time wasted figuring out how to proceed.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Quality Control</strong>: Policies like code review and testing procedures help to catch bugs and errors before they reach the production stage, improving the overall quality of the software.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Communication</strong>: Well-documented procedures act as a point of reference during discussions and can resolve or prevent disputes within the team. They can also make it easier to communicate with stakeholders outside the team, such as project managers or clients.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Risk Management</strong>: Certain procedures, like those related to security and disaster recovery, are crucial for managing risks. They ensure that the team is prepared for problems and can respond effectively when they occur.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Knowledge Preservation</strong>: Procedures help preserve the team’s collective knowledge. If a key team member leaves, others can refer to the documentation to understand their reasoning and methods.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>In essence, defined policies and procedures create a structure that facilitates collaboration, promotes high-quality output, and mitigates risk, leading to a more productive and harmonious development environment.</p>Stephen WrightonHow to Build Your Documentation Building best practices and procedure documentation for developers can be an involved process. However, it is critical to the success of your team and can lead to increased productivity, improved code quality, and a more harmonious working environment. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build this documentation:Ways to Poll a Server for Changes in JavaScript2023-06-07T00:00:00+00:002023-06-07T00:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2023/06/How-Poll-Server-For-changes-In-JavaScript<h2 id="introduction">Introduction:</h2>
<p>In the world of web development, staying updated with real-time data is crucial for many applications. Whether it’s displaying live chat messages, monitoring stock prices, or tracking the progress of an ongoing process, being able to fetch new data from a server at regular intervals is essential. This process is known as server polling, and JavaScript offers several techniques to accomplish it.</p>
<p>In this article, we will explore various ways to poll a server for changes using JavaScript. We will dive into the implementation details of each method, providing you with step-by-step instructions and example code. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced developer, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and tools to implement server polling effectively in your web applications.</p>
<h2 id="callback-based-server-polling">Callback-Based Server Polling</h2>
<p>Polling a server using callbacks is one of the simplest and most straightforward methods. It involves making an HTTP request to the server at regular intervals and processing the response using a callback function. Here’s how you can implement callback-based server polling in JavaScript:</p>
<ol>
<li>Define a callback function that handles the server response.</li>
<li>Use the <code class="language-plaintext highlighter-rouge">setInterval</code> function to trigger the HTTP request at specified intervals.</li>
<li>Make an AJAX request to the server using the <code class="language-plaintext highlighter-rouge">XMLHttpRequest</code> or <code class="language-plaintext highlighter-rouge">fetch</code> API.</li>
<li>In the callback function, process the server response and update your application accordingly.</li>
</ol>
<p>By following these steps, you can ensure that your application regularly fetches new data from the server and keeps the user interface up to date. However, callback-based server polling may not be the most efficient method, especially if the interval between requests is short. In such cases, other techniques like long polling or WebSockets might be more suitable.</p>
<h2 id="interval-based-server-polling">Interval-Based Server Polling</h2>
<p>Interval-based server polling involves making periodic requests to the server at fixed intervals, regardless of whether there are any updates. This approach is simple to implement but can lead to unnecessary network traffic if there are no changes on the server. Here’s how you can perform interval-based server polling:</p>
<ol>
<li>Set the desired polling interval using the <code class="language-plaintext highlighter-rouge">setInterval</code> function.</li>
<li>Make an AJAX request to the server at each interval.</li>
<li>Process the server response and update your application if necessary.</li>
</ol>
<p>Interval-based server polling is suitable for scenarios where real-time updates are not critical, and the frequency of changes on the server is relatively low. However, it’s important to consider the potential impact on server resources and network bandwidth, especially in high-traffic applications.</p>
<h2 id="long-polling">Long Polling</h2>
<p>Long polling is an alternative</p>
<p>approach to server polling that reduces the amount of unnecessary network traffic compared to interval-based polling. Instead of making requests at fixed intervals, the client sends a request to the server and keeps the connection open until there is new data available. Here’s how you can implement long polling in JavaScript:</p>
<ol>
<li>Make an AJAX request to the server.</li>
<li>On the server side, if there is no new data available, hold the request open.</li>
<li>When new data becomes available, send a response to the client.</li>
<li>Upon receiving the response, process the data and initiate another long polling request.</li>
</ol>
<p>Long polling allows you to receive updates almost instantly when they occur, reducing the delay between changes on the server and updates in your application. However, it requires more complex server-side logic and may not be supported by all server environments.</p>
<h2 id="websockets">WebSockets</h2>
<p>WebSockets provide a bidirectional communication channel between the client and the server, allowing real-time data updates without the need for frequent polling. The WebSocket protocol maintains a persistent connection, enabling efficient data transmission in both directions. Here’s how you can use WebSockets for server communication:</p>
<ol>
<li>Establish a WebSocket connection between the client and the server.</li>
<li>Send and receive data through the WebSocket connection using JavaScript APIs.</li>
<li>Handle incoming data on the client side and update your application accordingly.</li>
</ol>
<p>WebSockets are ideal for applications requiring real-time updates and low latency. However, they require WebSocket support on both the client and server side, and not all browsers and server environments may provide full compatibility.</p>
<h2 id="server-sent-events">Server-Sent Events</h2>
<p>Server-Sent Events (SSE) is another technique for real-time communication between the server and the client. SSE allows the server to send data to the client without the need for explicit client requests. The server maintains an open connection, pushing updates to the client as soon as they occur. Here’s how you can implement SSE in JavaScript:</p>
<ol>
<li>Set up a server-side endpoint that supports SSE.</li>
<li>In the client-side JavaScript code, create an <code class="language-plaintext highlighter-rouge">EventSource</code> object and specify the SSE endpoint.</li>
<li>Listen for incoming events using the <code class="language-plaintext highlighter-rouge">onmessage</code> event handler.</li>
<li>Process the received data and update your application as needed.</li>
</ol>
<p>Server-Sent Events provide a reliable and efficient way to receive real-time updates from the server. However, they are unidirectional, meaning the server can only send data to the client, and the client cannot send requests or updates back to the server.</p>
<h2 id="comparing-polling-techniques">Comparing Polling Techniques</h2>
<p>In this section, we will compare the different polling techniques discussed so far and highlight their advantages and disadvantages. Each approach has its own strengths and is suited for different use cases. By understanding the trade-offs, you can choose the most appropriate method for your specific application requirements.</p>
<h3 id="callback-based-server-polling-1">Callback-Based Server Polling</h3>
<p><strong>Advantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Simple and easy to implement.</li>
<li>Compatible with all modern browsers.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Disadvantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>May lead to unnecessary requests if the interval is too short.</li>
<li>Not suitable for scenarios requiring real-time updates.</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="interval-based-server-polling-1">Interval-Based Server Polling</h3>
<p><strong>Advantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Easy to implement.</li>
<li>Works well for applications with low-frequency updates.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Disadvantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Can generate unnecessary network traffic if there are no updates.</li>
<li>Not suitable for real-time applications.</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="long-polling-1">Long Polling</h3>
<p><strong>Advantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Allows instant updates as soon as they occur.</li>
<li>Reduces unnecessary network traffic compared to interval-based polling.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Disadvantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Requires more complex server-side logic.</li>
<li>Not universally supported by all server environments.</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="websockets-1">WebSockets</h3>
<p><strong>Advantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Bidirectional communication for real-time updates.</li>
<li>Low latency and efficient data transmission.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Disadvantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Requires WebSocket support on both client and server side.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Limited compatibility with older browsers and server environments.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<h3 id="server-sent-events-1">Server-Sent Events</h3>
<p><strong>Advantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Server-initiated real-time updates.</li>
<li>Reliable and efficient data transmission.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Disadvantages:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Unidirectional communication (server to client only).</li>
<li>Limited support in older browsers.</li>
</ul>
<p>When choosing a polling technique, consider factors such as real-time requirements, server resources, network bandwidth, and compatibility with target browsers and server environments. Each technique has its strengths, and selecting the right one will depend on the specific needs of your application.</p>
<h2 id="considerations-for-scalability">Considerations for Scalability</h2>
<p>When implementing server polling in your application, scalability is an important consideration. As the number of clients increases, the server must efficiently handle multiple simultaneous requests and distribute data updates without significant delays. Here are some key considerations for ensuring scalability:</p>
<ol>
<li>Optimize server-side code to handle concurrent requests efficiently.</li>
<li>Employ caching mechanisms to reduce unnecessary database queries or computations.</li>
<li>Implement load balancing techniques to distribute requests across multiple server instances.</li>
<li>Use asynchronous I/O to maximize server performance and responsiveness.</li>
</ol>
<p>By following these best practices, you can ensure that your server can handle a large number of simultaneous client connections and provide real-time updates without sacrificing performance.</p>
<h2 id="error-handling-and-retry-strategies">Error Handling and Retry Strategies</h2>
<p>In any network-based communication, errors can occur due to various reasons, such as network interruptions, server unavailability, or request timeouts. It’s important to handle these errors gracefully and implement retry strategies to maintain a reliable connection with the server. Here are some tips for effective error handling and retry strategies:</p>
<ol>
<li>Implement error handling mechanisms in your client-side JavaScript code to catch and handle network errors.</li>
<li>Define a retry mechanism that attempts to reconnect or resend requests in case of errors.</li>
<li>Implement exponential backoff algorithms to progressively increase the delay between retry attempts.</li>
<li>Provide appropriate error messages or notifications to the user when errors occur.</li>
</ol>
<p>By implementing robust error handling and retry strategies, you can enhance the stability and reliability of your server polling implementation.</p>
<h2 id="optimizing-server-polling-performance">Optimizing Server Polling Performance</h2>
<p>To ensure optimal performance and efficiency in server polling, it’s important to consider various factors that can impact performance. Here are some tips to optimize the performance of your server polling implementation:</p>
<ol>
<li>Minimize the payload size of the server responses by sending only the necessary data.</li>
<li>Implement client-side caching mechanisms to reduce the number of unnecessary requests to the server.</li>
<li>Fine-tune the polling interval based on the specific needs of your application.</li>
<li>Use compression techniques like GZIP to reduce the size of the data transferred over the network.</li>
</ol>
<p>By optimizing server polling performance, you can reduce bandwidth usage, minimize latency, and provide a smoother user experience.</p>
<h2 id="security-considerations">Security Considerations</h2>
<p>When implementing server polling, it’s crucial to consider security aspects to protect your application and its data. Here are some security considerations to keep in mind:</p>
<ol>
<li>Use secure connections (HTTPS) to protect data transmitted between the client and server.</li>
<li>Implement proper authentication and authorization mechanisms to ensure that only authorized clients can access the server.</li>
<li>Validate and sanitize user input on the server to prevent security vulnerabilities like SQL injection or cross-site scripting (XSS).</li>
<li>Regularly update server-side libraries and frameworks to patch any security vulnerabilities.</li>
</ol>
<p>By following these security best practices, you can safeguard your application and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of your data.</p>
<h2 id="frequently-asked-questions-faqs">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>
<ol>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Is server polling the only way to achieve real-time updates in JavaScript applications?</strong>
A: No, there are other techniques like WebSockets and Server-Sent Events that provide more efficient and real-time communication between the server and the client.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: How often should I poll the server for updates?</strong>
A: The polling interval depends</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>on the specific needs of your application. Consider factors such as the frequency of updates, server resources, and network bandwidth.</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Can I implement server polling in a mobile application?</strong>
A: Yes, server polling can be implemented in mobile applications using JavaScript frameworks like React Native or frameworks that provide native HTTP request capabilities.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: What happens if the server is temporarily unavailable during a polling request?</strong>
A: In such cases, proper error handling and retry strategies should be implemented to ensure that the connection is reestablished once the server becomes available.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Can server polling negatively impact server performance?</strong>
A: Server polling can generate additional network traffic and increase the load on the server. It’s important to optimize the implementation and consider scalability considerations to mitigate potential performance issues.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Is server polling suitable for highly concurrent applications with a large number of clients?</strong>
A: Depending on the specific requirements, other techniques like WebSockets or Server-Sent Events might be more suitable for highly concurrent applications.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Can I implement server polling using third-party libraries or frameworks?</strong>
A: Yes, there are several libraries and frameworks available that provide abstractions and simplified APIs for implementing server polling in JavaScript applications.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Are there any security risks associated with server polling?</strong>
A: Server polling itself doesn’t introduce significant security risks. However, it’s important to follow security best practices to protect against potential vulnerabilities in your application.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: How can I test and debug my server polling implementation?</strong>
A: Use browser developer tools to monitor network requests, inspect server responses, and debug your client-side JavaScript code.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p><strong>Q: Are there any alternatives to server polling for real-time updates?</strong>
A: Yes, alternatives like WebSockets, Server-Sent Events, or using third-party real-time communication services can provide more efficient and scalable solutions for real-time updates.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<h2 id="conclusion">Conclusion</h2>
<p>In this article, we explored various ways to poll a server for changes in JavaScript. We discussed techniques such as callback-based server polling, interval-based server polling, long polling, WebSockets, and Server-Sent Events. Each technique has its own advantages and considerations, allowing you to choose the most suitable method based on your application’s requirements.</p>
<p>We also covered important aspects like scalability, error handling and retry strategies, performance optimization, and security considerations when implementing server polling. By considering these factors and following best practices, you can ensure an efficient and reliable server polling implementation.</p>
<p>Remember to choose the appropriate technique based on your specific use case and carefully evaluate the trade-offs between real-time updates, server resources, network bandwidth, and compatibility with browsers and server environments.</p>
<p>Server polling is a powerful tool for fetching real-time updates from a server and keeping your web applications up to date with the latest data. By implementing the techniques and recommendations discussed in this article, you can effectively leverage server polling in your JavaScript applications and provide an enhanced user experience.</p>Stephen WrightonIntroduction: In the world of web development, staying updated with real-time data is crucial for many applications. Whether it’s displaying live chat messages, monitoring stock prices, or tracking the progress of an ongoing process, being able to fetch new data from a server at regular intervals is essential. This process is known as server polling, and JavaScript offers several techniques to accomplish it.Why LitElement Over Angular2023-05-31T00:00:00+00:002023-05-31T00:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2023/05/Why-LitElement-Over-Angular<h2 id="overview-of-litelement-and-angular">Overview of LitElement and Angular</h2>
<p>LitElement and Angular are both popular frameworks used for web development, but they have different approaches and features. This section provides a brief overview of both frameworks.</p>
<p>LitElement is a lightweight base class for creating fast, efficient web components. It is part of the open-source Polymer project and follows the Web Component standard. LitElement focuses on simplicity, reusability, and performance. It provides a declarative syntax and a reactive data system, making it easier to build web components that are easy to understand and maintain.</p>
<p>Angular, on the other hand, is a full-fledged JavaScript framework developed by Google. It offers a comprehensive set of features and tools for building complex web applications. Angular follows the MVC (Model-View-Controller) architectural pattern and provides a powerful and opinionated structure for application development. It includes features like dependency injection, component-based architecture, and two-way data binding.</p>
<h2 id="performance-and-efficiency">Performance and Efficiency</h2>
<p>When it comes to performance and efficiency, LitElement has an edge over Angular. LitElement’s lightweight nature allows for faster rendering and smaller bundle sizes. LitElement leverages the power of modern browser APIs and native JavaScript features, resulting in optimized performance. Additionally, LitElement’s reactive data system ensures efficient updates to the DOM, minimizing unnecessary re-renders.</p>
<p>Angular, being a full-fledged framework, comes with a larger footprint and more complex rendering process. While Angular provides various performance optimization techniques, it requires additional configuration and careful implementation to achieve optimal performance. In scenarios where performance is a critical factor, LitElement’s lightweight nature and simplicity make it a compelling choice.</p>
<h2 id="size-and-footprint">Size and Footprint</h2>
<p>One significant advantage of LitElement over Angular is its smaller size and footprint. LitElement focuses on providing only the essential features needed for building web components, resulting in a smaller bundle size. This smaller size leads to faster load times and improved overall performance.</p>
<p>On the other hand, Angular includes a wide range of features, tools, and dependencies, which contribute to a larger bundle size. This larger size may not be a concern for larger applications with complex requirements, but for smaller projects or performance-critical scenarios, LitElement’s smaller footprint can make a noticeable difference.</p>
<h2 id="learning-curve">Learning Curve</h2>
<p>The learning curve is an important consideration when choosing a framework. LitElement has a relatively low learning curve compared to Angular. Its simplicity and minimalistic approach make it easier for developers to get started quickly. LitElement builds upon standard web technologies like JavaScript and HTML, making it accessible to developers familiar with these languages.</p>
<p>Angular, being a comprehensive framework, has a steeper learning curve. It introduces various concepts and abstractions, such as modules, decorators, and dependency injection, which may require more time and effort to grasp. Developers new to Angular might need to invest more time in understanding its conventions and best practices.</p>
<h2 id="flexibility-and-customization">Flexibility and Customization</h2>
<p>LitElement shines when it comes to flexibility and customization. It allows developers to create reusable, encapsulated web components that can be easily composed and extended. LitElement’s declarative syntax and reactive data system make it straightforward to build components with complex logic and dynamic behavior.</p>
<p>Angular, being a full-fledged framework, provides a higher level of abstraction and structure. It follows a component-based architecture that promotes reusability and modularity. However, the strict conventions and patterns enforced by Angular can limit flexibility in certain scenarios. Customizing and extending Angular’s core functionality often requires adhering to its guidelines and architectural principles.</p>
<h2 id="community-and-support">Community and Support</h2>
<p>The community and support around a framework are vital factors for its long-term viability. In this aspect, Angular has a significant advantage. Angular has a large and active community, backed by Google’s support. It has a vast ecosystem of libraries, tools, and resources available, making it easier to find solutions to common problems and stay up-to-date with the latest trends.</p>
<p>LitElement, being a part of the Polymer project, has a smaller community compared to Angular. However, it is still growing steadily, and the community is passionate about web components and their benefits. While the community size may be smaller, LitElement’s simplicity and interoperability with other frameworks make it an attractive choice for certain use cases.</p>
<h2 id="tooling-and-ecosystem">Tooling and Ecosystem</h2>
<p>Both LitElement and Angular provide a robust set of tools and development ecosystem. Angular, being a mature framework, has a comprehensive set of tools for development, testing, and debugging. It offers a command-line interface (CLI) for generating components, services, and other artifacts, making development more efficient. The Angular ecosystem includes libraries, frameworks, and tools specifically designed for Angular development.</p>
<p>LitElement, being a lightweight library, has a simpler tooling setup. It can be integrated easily into existing build systems and workflows. While LitElement does not have a dedicated CLI or an extensive ecosystem like Angular, it leverages the power of modern JavaScript tooling and bundlers. It can work seamlessly with popular frameworks like React and Vue, allowing developers to mix and match technologies based on their needs.</p>
<h2 id="integration-with-other-frameworks">Integration with Other Frameworks</h2>
<p>One of the advantages of LitElement is its interoperability with other frameworks. LitElement can be easily used alongside existing projects built with React, Vue, or Angular. This flexibility enables developers to incrementally adopt web components and leverage their benefits without rewriting their entire codebase.</p>
<p>Angular, on the other hand, is a complete framework and requires a dedicated migration effort to integrate it with existing projects. While Angular provides tools and guidelines for migrating from other frameworks, the process can be more involved compared to using LitElement alongside other frameworks.</p>
<h2 id="browser-compatibility">Browser Compatibility</h2>
<p>When it comes to browser compatibility, both LitElement and Angular provide excellent support for modern browsers. LitElement leverages the native capabilities of modern browsers and includes polyfills for older browsers to ensure broad compatibility.</p>
<p>Angular also supports modern browsers and provides polyfills for older versions. However, due to its larger footprint and complex rendering process, Angular might have slightly higher requirements in terms of browser versions and performance capabilities.</p>
<h2 id="conclusion">Conclusion</h2>
<p>LitElement and Angular are both powerful frameworks for web development, each with its strengths and areas of focus. LitElement shines in its simplicity, lightweight nature, and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for building efficient and reusable web components. Angular, on the other hand, offers a comprehensive framework with a rich ecosystem, making it suitable for large-scale applications with complex requirements.</p>
<p>When choosing between LitElement and Angular, consider factors such as project size, performance requirements, learning curve, and community support. Evaluate your specific needs and weigh the advantages and trade-offs of each framework. Ultimately, the choice depends on your project’s unique requirements and your development team’s expertise.</p>
<p>Remember to stay updated with the latest developments and trends in the web development landscape. Continuously learning and exploring new frameworks and libraries will ensure you make informed decisions and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving world of web development.</p>Stephen WrightonOverview of LitElement and Angular10 Reasons to Modernize ASP.Net WebForms2023-05-28T12:00:00+00:002023-05-28T12:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2023/05/10-Reasons-To-Update-Webforms<p>Ten reasons why your business should consider modernizing their ASP.NET WebForms applications:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Enhanced User Experience:</strong> Modernizing your ASP.NET WebForms applications can improve the user experience by incorporating responsive design, intuitive interfaces, and mobile-friendly features.</li>
<li><strong>Increased Performance:</strong> Modern technologies and frameworks offer better performance capabilities, allowing your application to handle increased traffic and provide faster response times.</li>
<li><strong>Scalability:</strong> Modernizing your application enables easier scalability, allowing your business to accommodate growing user demands and handle increased data loads effectively.</li>
<li><strong>Improved Security:</strong> Modern frameworks and development practices offer robust security features, protecting your application and data from emerging threats and vulnerabilities.</li>
<li><strong>Integration with Third-Party Services:</strong> Modernization opens up opportunities for seamless integration with third-party services and APIs, enhancing functionality and enabling new business capabilities.</li>
<li><strong>Developer Productivity:</strong> Modern frameworks, tools, and development practices streamline the development process, enabling faster feature implementation and reducing time-to-market.</li>
<li><strong>Long-term Support:</strong> ASP.NET WebForms has reached its mature stage, and modernization ensures long-term support by transitioning to newer, actively maintained frameworks like ASP.NET MVC or ASP.NET Core.</li>
<li><strong>Compatibility with Modern Browsers:</strong> Web browsers continuously evolve, and modernizing your application ensures compatibility with the latest browser versions, ensuring optimal performance and user experience.</li>
<li><strong>Access to Rich Ecosystem:</strong> Modern frameworks like ASP.NET Core offer a vibrant ecosystem of libraries, plugins, and community support, providing access to a wide range of resources and solutions.</li>
<li><strong>Future-Proofing:</strong> By modernizing your ASP.NET WebForms applications, you future-proof your technology stack, enabling easier adoption of emerging technologies, trends, and innovations in the web development landscape.</li>
</ul>
<p>When modernizing any application, your business’s specific needs and circumstances should be carefully considered and those needs should be a factor in how the application is improved.</p>
<p>And don’t forget, a partner with a track record of improving and updating ASP.Net WebForms helps provide a smooth journey to a successful modernization project</p>Stephen WrightonTen reasons why your business should consider modernizing their ASP.NET WebForms applications:Webforms Are Dead2019-10-23T10:00:00+00:002019-10-23T10:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2019/10/webforms-are-dead<p>Microsoft has effectively killed ASP.Net WebForms.</p>
<p>In truth, this makes me sad, I loved WebForms. They worked in a way that made sense to me, especially as I was effectively a thick client programmer who was just getting started in this wild world of web application development back in 2003. Though, I can understand; most developers want MVC, Razor Pages or WEB API and a JS Framework for their new efforts. Microsoft has to adapt; they have to give developers what they want.</p>
<p>Worse for me, Microsoft is removing VB.Net from being able to be used to create new ASP.Net applications once .NET Core becomes .Net 5.0. Again, VB.Net just worked for me. I preferred its syntax and coding style over C#’s. And again, I can understand. The most vocal developers out there, bad mouth VB.Net constantly. I remember at the start of this year, when VB.Net suddenly appeared on the programming lists, that the .NET podcasters went crazy; and not in a good way. Again, this is just Microsoft producing what they believe developers want; though in this case there is also some coupling with their cross-platform initiative associated with .Net Core.</p>
<p>But as always, we advance, and we adapt. I’m in I.T. and have to do so; and as the person in charge of my companies development efforts, direct the company and guide my employees in doing so.</p>
<p>But this also means, that all those WebForms applications (both the VB.Net ones and the C# ones) out there, are quickly running to their end of life. They need to be uplifted and changed from WebForms to a new technology such as Razor pages.</p>
<p>Above and beyond that, there are a lot of “gotchas” in WebForms. Things that a developer can do with them, to make them more efficient, and basically work around all the headaches which most developers complain about regarding them. The problem with this, is that if you’re not familiar with those work arounds or tricks, then a developer won’t understand what’s actually happening. Which means that the resulting new code, could produce things you’re not expecting (i.e. bugs!).</p>
<p>This is doubly the case if your WebForms application happens to be in VB.Net. After all, VB.Net is an underserved market, with most new developers not learning the language. And again, not knowing the depths of the language means that efficiency tricks could be missed or misinterpreted when moving the code to C#.</p>
<p>I’m not sure if this is ultimately a good thing or bad thing from an overarching point of view. But in the end, we have to learn and adapt.</p>
<p>And change our code to suit.</p>Stephen WrightonMicrosoft has effectively killed ASP.Net WebForms.Cost versus Value Pricing2019-06-24T19:00:00+00:002019-06-24T19:00:00+00:00https://programmer.wrighton.org/2019/06/cost-v-value-pricing<p>I’ve been a consulting software developer for sixteen of the almost seventeen years I have been professionally building software. This means that I interact with customers to determine what they’re after as far as building a piece of software to meet the particular business need for that customer.</p>
<p>And for all that time, the estimates I was told to generate, the way I interacted with those clients was via Time & Materials.</p>
<p>What this meant is that every hour I worked, was an hour I billed. It was a direct, one-to-one relationship between my labor (my employer’s cost) and the price which the client paid.</p>
<p>Now, there is some benefit from this, almost entirely from the vendor side of this. Using Time & Materials means that we will always make a certain amount of profit. No matter how happy the client is at the end of things, we will have made something. What that something is depends entirely on the client’s bill rate, but it will always be something.</p>
<p>From the client’s point of view, they can ask for anything at anytime, and the Time & Materials developer will usually agree, as that’s just more work, which means more value for the vendor.</p>
<p>There is a supposition of dynamic responses to changes which advocates for the process indicate as a primary reason that Software Developers should choose Time & Materials as their preferred billing method.</p>
<p>Like I said, for years, I have been a consultant style software developer, and and one that was not responsible for how the pricing models were defined and applied. While I may have been the technical lead in later years, that did not come with it any actual power from a “how business is performed” point of view.</p>
<p>Something else that should be known about me is that I’m capitalistic in the extreme. I believe in capitalism, and the free market. I mean, deep in my bones, believe in it.</p>
<p>Which is why I have always disliked Time & Materials. Now, this was not something that I had ever expressed, after all, I was just a peon, I was not in charge, nor could I effectively wield influence to change things. Thus, I accepted that the businesses used Time & Materials and carried on.</p>
<p>Now, you may be asking why I dislike it, and the answer is simple. Karl Marx invented it.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>As exchange-values, all commodities are merely definite quantities of congealed labour-time
– Karl Marx</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Yes, the same Karl Marx who is responsible for providing us Marxism.</p>
<p>But above and beyond that, Time & Materials generates a distinct issue for the vendor. Think about it, as a software developer, my current rate is $185/hour. Say, I estimate a project as taking 100 hours, that means the ESTIMATED cost is going to be $18,500, and a forty percent overrun of that estimate kicks us up to $25,900. These are simple, and reasonable numbers.</p>
<p>Straightforward even.</p>
<p>The problem comes in that I’m in no way incentivized to meet my estimate. Quite the opposite really. If I overrun, I make more money. In fact, I’m functionally punished for meeting or exceeding my estimates. And while I’ve gotten fairly good at generating my estimates, they’re still just that, estimates.</p>
<p>What’s even worse, is that this could lead to hurting the long-term relationship with the client. For while a forty percent overrun on those 100 hours is only an additional $7,4000, that same forty percent overrun on a thousand hour estimate is an additional $74,000. That could be a business ending estimation over run; especially for a small startup. And regardless if it’s a $7,000 or a $70,000 overrun, the client will very likely not be happy at the end of things due to it.</p>
<p>In my opinion, it’s not the best option for clients.</p>
<p>BUT, I have recently been promoted. I’m not in a position where I can impact this business behavior, and change it.</p>
<p>Thus, I’m now advocating value-based pricing on our projects. Value based pricing, is pricing something based upon the perceived value to the client, rather than my costs as a vendor. This means that the clients will have a defined price by which we will produce something to meet their business needs.</p>
<p>Sure, this means a bit more effort in regards to sales and talking with clients as we have to actually figure out why we’re building something, and how it is going to actually provide value of some type to the client. And then we’re going to have to give that value a dollar number. There is a lot that’s going on which makes this both better and harder from my company point of view as well.</p>
<p>Excluding my innate distrust of anything Marxist, what this ultimately comes down to is that my project proposals are less about the explicit piece of software I’m going to be building, and more about the business needs that I’m going to be solving.</p>
<p>Frankly, that’s where my focus should be the entire time. I’m an IT Business Consultant. That is supposed to mean that I’m there to help businesses be better through IT and Software Development/Processes. I’m not supposed to be there to type the screens I’m told to type with no concept of the bigger picture.</p>
<p>Words are important, they define us, our ideas and our ideals. Words truly make up our reality in so many diverse ways.</p>
<p>So consider this entire article in this way, I’m supposed to be providing value to a business, not exist as a cost to the business.</p>
<p>When the price is based on cost, it’s telling both the me the vendor and the client that I’m there to perform a task, and charge you for it. I’m a resource to be used to solve random problems that may or may not resolve anything. I’m not concerned one way or the other, I sold you my hour; it’s irrelevant how said hour is now used.</p>
<p>When my price is based on value, I’m adding value to the business. That’s my goal and my purpose in being there; to resolve the problem and to make it better than it was before. I’m a partner who works with you to deal with things. I’ve not sold you an hour; I’ve helped you generate value.</p>
<p>My company’s motto is “Be the Geek.”</p>
<p>We’re all supposed to be the best that we can be. We should be striving for the best, and helping our clients deal with their I.T. needs to the utmost of our abilities.</p>
<p>And I can’t think of a better way to help our clients, than to drive value to their companies.</p>Stephen WrightonI’ve been a consulting software developer for sixteen of the almost seventeen years I have been professionally building software. This means that I interact with customers to determine what they’re after as far as building a piece of software to meet the particular business need for that customer.