Author Description

The goal of Software People is to give an insider's view of what being a software person is all about to "foreigners" -- non-programmers. It is non-technical, but explains things that are different about people who become programmers. I attempt to cover material in the book that I haven't seen elsewhere. Here are some of the topics:A description for outsiders of all the stuff you've got to know in order to be a programmer -- learning a language is just a tiny bit of it!A statement of the programmer's dilemma -- how all-consuming mastering even a slice of software usually is, and the difficult trade-off's you're then faced with involving the other skills you need to succeed in an organization and in life.A discussion of how there are levels and levels of software skill -- it isn't like learning to drive a car. Similarly with productivity.A extensive discussion of the cultural divisions and wars that blaze through the software community, with mutually incompatible "religions" living in separate colonies, looking with disdain and pity at those who follow false gods.How people who are excellent at software, far from being honored, are often diminished and marginalized.Lots of material about hiring. Who decides, on what basis, common mistakes.A discussion of the deep-seated cynicism that infects a large number of programmers.Technology organizations, managers and decision making.Typical patterns I've seen in software people.An extensive discussion, with examples, of the flaws that are characteristic of high-IQ programmers.Finally, a discussion of the role of the CEO in a company where software plays a key role.