After the Gold Rush: Essays on the Profession of Software Engineering (Best Practices) (Paperback)

The question of whether such a "professionalisation" of software development is a good idea is up for debate, certainly. It seems that a lot of programming jobs involve standard problems and solutions, which would lend themselves to teaching and testing. On the other hand, quantum-leap innovation has often come from "cowboy" artisans who deviate from the standard practices. Similarly, aggressive technology investors aren't interested in deliberate, standardised work--they want world-beating products (and they want them to market immediately, if not sooner).After the Gold Rush makes a well-reasoned, well-supported argument for a more structured programming profession, and is worthwhile reading for any technology executive or project manager.

Topics covered: The problem with "code-and-fix" software development, the elusive nature of a body of knowledge in high-tech subjects, the structure of more traditional engineering professions (civil, chemical, and others), solution design versus implementation, and suggestions for how software engineering professionals might be trained and certified. --David Wall

Synopsis
A new addition to the Best Practices series presents an incisive reflection on and look at the future of software engineering, offering a collection of original essays on critical trends that will shape the industry. Original. (Beginner).