Buy, don't invent
Don’t re-invent the wheel has long been a principle of software making. But apparently engineers from all over the world don’t listen to this much. Most programmers are smart, brave, and over optimistic. They’re always ready to challenge their limitations.
In 2003 and 2004, I saw many components developed from scratch. Some talents designed and implemented them. Being clients, other talents used them as public service modules. These components were absolutely great. But just like any other two-edged sword, sometimes these components made people crazy: buggy, hard to use, lacked documents, and their interfaces changed TOO frequently.
In such situation, a huge amount of money, time, and energy were spent. The project was thrown into chaos. More and more firemen were needed to rescue. Developers had been dead tired, angry and annoyed for a long period. Complaining, the more they coded, the more bugs were born. Extra time had been a basic need of life.
I believe now some needs would have been met if they had decided to BUY certain components. That would cost less. Those guys could pay more attention to what they had to do. There would be no lack of labor problem. People would be happier. The product would be released earlier, maybe ahead of deadline.
But you know, I’m obviously too optimistic about this!
Aug 23 05, 11:27 pm
yep
Aug 24 05, 12:42 pm
Maybe one day you will suffer from some components your bought. you will reget why don’t write it.
Aug 24 05, 12:52 pm
I’d rather suffer someday than present day. Anyway it (maybe one day…) is only possibility.
Aug 25 05, 8:53 am
It’s true that you will suffer from some (or more) 3rd-party components, especially in China. It’s the fault of our software market.
Aug 26 05, 9:33 am
too professional to understand.
but as far as i know ,,you’ve had a good hobby of english writing!
Aug 26 05, 1:20 pm
Just wanna improve it. And this is the topic I’m most familiar with.
Aug 29 05, 9:31 pm
中国人讲人定胜天,所以DIY一切也不足为怪了.
聪明又愚蠢的中国人,噢卖嘎的
Sep 8 05, 6:28 pm
I really very admire you now. how do you learn it? your english is very good!