FEBRUARY 5, 2016 · FACEBOOK This was one of those posts that I threw together, thought nothing of, & then it blew up. Until recently this was my most-read post ever. From years [decades] of watching master programmers, I have observed certain common patterns in their workflows. From years [decades] of coaching skilled journeyman programmers, I have observed the absence of those patterns. I have seen what a difference introducing the patterns can make.
In chess, there is the principle of the “accumulation of small advantages” and another related principle “the threat is stronger than the execution”. These both say something about the surprising and cumulative effect of paying attention to small things. Little by little, you accumulate small advantages until you can knock your opponent over with a small push of your pinky finger.
I love this post. I read the original when it was published and it still rings true many years later.
> We’re so focused on efficiency that…
Given the recent layoffs for the sake of efficiency, this could be something similar to the “Of course” meme.
We are focused on efficiency, of course we:
… layoff people and then hire them back!
… disband teams that make/save money and grow teams that waste money!
So much of this feels familiar... but I would have a really hard time articulating it. Thank you for the clarity!
In chess, there is the principle of the “accumulation of small advantages” and another related principle “the threat is stronger than the execution”. These both say something about the surprising and cumulative effect of paying attention to small things. Little by little, you accumulate small advantages until you can knock your opponent over with a small push of your pinky finger.