I read. A lot. And these are the five most interesting things I read this week. Its a mix of making software, satire, chess and culture.
1. The case for a rudimentary 1.0
2. Kinds of process engineers hate
3. Edgar Schein talks culture
4. Funny fake news about Mangalyaan
5. Karpov anecdote: May be I am better?
My notes
1. The case for a rudimentary 1.0
I am about to sign off on version 1.0 of a product. I reread this article to remind myself that there is more to judging quality of early stage software.
2. Kinds of process engineers hate
I’ve been trying to get my team to go light on process. The question invariably comes down to how do we identify good process? This Rands in Repose article is a good starting point.
3. Edgar Schein talks culture
Edgar Schein is a big, big, big name in the field of culture and organizational psychology. This 18 minute video was eye opening for me. My favorite product to test in my career has been a product that surveys culture in a highly risk conscious industry. Edgar Schein pooh-poohs surveys in general. He also claims engagement surveys are perhaps the only survey worth administering. Its always good to be aware of arguments against your products.
4. Funny fake news about Mangalyaan
Satire that hit close to home for me.
5. Karpov anecdote: May be I am better?
Wisdom from a kid. This is a great anecdote about a young Karpov narrated with characteristic passion by Alexander Roshal.
I want to find out what conditions produce remarkable software. A few years ago, I chose to work as the first professional tester at a startup. I successfully won credibility for testers and established a world-class team. I have lead the testing for early versions of multiple products. Today, I run Qxf2 Services. Qxf2 provides software testing services for startups. If you are interested in what Qxf2 offers or simply want to talk about testing, you can contact me at: [email protected]. I like testing, math, chess and dogs.
