subject: Tips on becoming a better software developer [print this page] Tips on becoming a better software developer
Many would argue that software development is in it's infancy as a profession. Although we have a couple of decades of innovation and great advances behind us, our profession is still not very 'mature' and we've got a ways to go. As professionals, we have the ability to influence the direction, and responsibility to make sure that it moves in a positive direction.
During my time as a software developer/consultant, I found myself in the extremely fortunate position of working with some of the best and brightest minds in the industry. With their help, I was able to grow both as a person and as a professional. There are a pretty good number of people such as my former colleagues and unofficial mentors who relish the opportunity to pass along what they've learned, but that number is still pretty small. The less confident developers oftentimes hold onto the knowledge in order to not lose their 'competitive advantage'. Here I'd like to share some things I've learned from those who rejected that kind of outlook.
Always be prepared to learn. There are numerous reasons for this. Technology changes at an incredible pace. Niches can be profitable in both the short and the long term and you must choose wisely. You must not forget that technologies or products may not always be around. So for your own career's longevity you must be prepared to stay current with the market. Another reason is so that you don't get so comfortable with one method of doing things that you hold onto it even while there may be more efficient methods out there. IF you are willing to study and always look out for ways to better yourself you will grow and your peers will come to respect you for your expertise. No matter how much you think you know there is always something more to learn.
Don't let your early successes go to yorr head. In the typical career progression of a programmer, the early years can be full of great professional growth - your knowledge increases by leaps and bounds as you get into the real world and write software that tackles real world problems. For sure, we can be proud of these achievements but we must not let them go to our heads. Staying humble means you will keep yourself open to learning from your peers at all times. It's critical to have a positive attitude and evaluate your own work objectively - it will go a long way in making you a better developer.
Focus on the business too. Of course our technical knowledge is usually the primary reason we are able to land some very lucrative positions. However, as you progress in your career, I guarantee that you will find if you have picked up any business knowledge along the way, it will be invaluable to you in your profession. It can open a lot of opportunities - perhaps you can find creative solutions to business problems; or perhaps you can come up with a great idea for a product that a particular market is aching for.
Be patient and don't get discouraged. There is always information overload in our industry. It's easy to get confused and discouraged, and difficult to figure out where you should spend your energies. Moreover, its sometimes hard to see the benefits of your time spent learning new things if you have not had a chance to apply them at work just yet. Patience is key.
