Wise Words from Seasoned Developers

It's often said that the most effective developers are humble. Yet, this advice is frequently shared without clarity on what being humble entails or its benefits. A senior developer may quote principles like single responsibility or TDD to a junior colleague, but they often lack the ability to articulate these concepts clearly or implement them effectively.

Skills acquired from simple coding exercises, like "Hello World," often fall short when faced with the intricate demands of a real project, akin to the complexities of building a Death Star.

Here's a closer look at some commonly referenced principles:

1. Single Responsibility Principle - In practice, it quickly becomes apparent that achieving this in even a small segment of code can necessitate numerous methods.
2. KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) - The challenge lies in simplifying software that must perform thousands of functions.
3. YAGNI (You Aren't Gonna Need It) - This principle implies that developers have time to create non-essential code, which is rarely the case when they struggle to produce necessary features.
4. Avoiding Technical Debt - Without comprehensive requirements and a skilled team, minimizing technical debt is nearly impossible.
5. Test-Driven Development (TDD) - Writing tests before developing software can feel like a life half-lived.
6. Clarifying Assumptions - This is commendable, but all requirements are essentially assumptions, as users often lack understanding of both current and future processes.
7. Principle of Least Astonishment - It's a frequent shock to see poor code making its way into production, especially under tight deadlines and excessive meetings.
8. Law of Demeter - A humorous reminder that collaboration is key, even if it means having a fantastical companion.
9. Fail Fast - This is one principle I consistently embrace.

The Ideal of the Humble Developer

In my mind, a humble developer resembles a wise, serene figure, akin to Yoda, who possesses a wealth of experience after years in the software realm. They observe a junior developer misunderstanding project needs and gently guide them towards simpler, more maintainable solutions.

However, in the real world, surrounded by developers making questionable choices and racing against deadlines, there’s little room for humility. Developers often find themselves in survival mode, struggling to complete their tasks without conflict.

Admitting that someone else’s idea might be superior feels like a punch to the gut for many developers.

Driven to Succeed

The most accomplished developers I’ve encountered are driven individuals. They envision a solution and tirelessly work towards making it a reality. This drive is a critical component of their effectiveness. But does replacing this drive with humility diminish their capability?

There’s no universal method for success in software development, and no single pathway leads to being a proficient developer. Practices vary based on context, experience, and individual skills.

Embracing Humility Over Time

As I’ve transitioned from a younger developer to a solution architect, I’ve learned to appreciate humility. Previously, I believed my ideas were the best; however, I've come to realize the value of listening to others. Collaborating with competent developers introduces perspectives I may not have considered, enriching my own understanding.

While humility is not always the best strategy, its effectiveness often hinges on context—considering factors like the experience levels and knowledge of the team, as well as project timelines.

Further Reading

• Great Developers Are Humble Developers
• The Biggest Regrets Senior Developers Have In Their Careers
• Developers — Let the Humble Ant Be Your Guide