Category: Computing

(via canonical.org) There was once a programmer who was attached to the court of the warlord of Wu. The warlord asked the programmer: “Which is easier to design: an accounting package or an operating system?” “An operating system,” replied the programmer. The warlord uttered an exclamation of disbelief. “Surely an accounting package is trivial next … Continue reading “The programmer operates as a mediator between people having different ideas”

(via canonical.org) There once was a man who went to a computer trade show. Each day as he entered, the man told the guard at the door: “I am a great thief, renowned for my feats of shoplifting. Be forewarned, for this trade show shall not escape unplundered.” This speech disturbed the guard greatly, because … Continue reading “I am stealing ideas”

(via canonical.org) A well-used door needs no oil on its hinges. A swift-flowing stream does not grow stagnant. A deer blends perfectly into the forest colors. Software rots if not used. These are great mysteries. — Geoffrey James, The Tao of Programming

(via canonical.org) There was once a programmer who worked upon microprocessors. “Look at how well off I am here,” he said to a mainframe programmer who came to visit, “I have my own operating system and file storage device. I do not have to share my resources with anyone. The software is self- consistent and … Continue reading “Until the end of their days”

(via canonical.org) Prince Wang’s programmer was coding software. His fingers danced upon the keyboard. The program compiled without an error message, and the program ran like a gentle wind. “Excellent!” the Prince exclaimed, “Your technique is faultless!” “Technique?” said the programmer turning from his terminal, “What I follow is Tao – beyond all techniques! When … Continue reading “Technique?”

(via canonical.org) A manager went to the master programmer and showed him the requirements document for a new application. The manager asked the master: “How long will it take to design this system if I assign five programmers to it?” “It will take one year,” said the master promptly. “But we need this system immediately … Continue reading “How long will it take to design this system?”

(via canonical.org) Why are programmers non-productive? Because their time is wasted in meetings. Why are programmers rebellious? Because the management interferes too much. Why are the programmers resigning one by one? Because they are burnt out. Having worked for poor management, they no longer value their jobs. — Geoffrey James, The Tao of Programming