My2Cents

What does an architect do?  This surely won’t be the last time this question is asked on this forum.  It is an important question, and somewhat hard to pin down; especially when one considers the many titles of a Software Architect.  There seems to be a general idea of what a software architect does, but many software managers don’t seem to believe the role is necessary, or even distinct:  “Can’t we just have one of our senior developers do that?”   Sure you can; If you have a senior developer who possesses those skills.

Continue reading “The Role of the Software Architect, Part I” »

Okay, that’s a bit strong, but it got your attention. In truth, I think design patterns are very useful things. They can aid in understanding software design, for documenting and communicating design, and for applying to or refactoring designs; but many people see them as something more.  I saw a consulting job requirement a while ago, and one of the required skills was that the candidate “must have used ALL of the design patterns” documented in the GoF Book.  Is this really significantly different than requiring that a building architect has applied every form of archway and flying butress ever used in the history of construction?  Isn’t awareness more important than past application?

Continue reading “Design Patterns are Overrated” »

I don’t know who originated this trick.  I first read about in in P.J. Plauger’s “Programming on Purpose”.  It was probably first used by assembly language programmer’s when 4-bit systems were common and memory was paltry.  Still, it can be handy in a tight loop even on a relative fast processor.

Continue reading “Fast Exchange” »

I know that doesn’t sound good.  I don’t think my mother would approve if you called me that, but you can see that it’s true.  So many changes since my first days on a dial-up Bulletin Board System, yet it’s so much the same.  With all of the technological capabilities bestowed upon us by our digital slaves, it seems that what we like best about them is their ability to help us communicate with an ever-growing number of people.  I doubt that will ever change.