Holiday Gaming Gift Guide: The 2024 Christmas Special from Building Better Developers
Posted on Holiday Specials

Holiday Gaming Gift Guide: The 2024 Christmas Special from Building Better Developers

The holiday season is here, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to treat yourself and your loved ones to some gaming cheer. In this year’s Building Better Developers Christmas Special, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche dive into their ultimate Holiday Gaming Gift Guide, filled with ideas to make this season merry and bright for gamers and developers alike. A Season of Reflection and Self-Care Before diving into gift recommendations, the hosts emphasize the importance of self-care during the holidays. Developers often work long hours and juggle heavy responsibilities, making it essential to carve out time for hobbies and relaxation. Gaming, they note, can be the perfect way to unwind and recharge. Top Picks for Holiday Gaming Gift Guide The... Read more

AI Habits to Embrace for Efficiency and Growth
Posted on Building Better Habits

AI Habits to Embrace for Efficiency and Growth

In the latest Building Better Developers podcast season, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche dive deep into the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on developers’ habits. In this episode, the focus isn’t just on using AI but on leveraging it to enhance productivity, creativity, and problem-solving capabilities. The AI Revolution: Why Developers Should Care AI is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s an integral part of the developer’s toolbox. Tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, and IntelliJ IDEA’s AI-powered suggestions transform workflows from generating boilerplate code to aiding testing and planning. As Rob Broadhead pointed out, AI’s potential extends far beyond novelty. It’s about using AI to “do better what you are already doing” rather than treating it as a... Read more

Agile Developer Habits: Simple Practices for Big Development Wins
Posted on Building Better Habits

Agile Developer Habits: Simple Practices for Big Development Wins

Agile has become a cornerstone of modern development, yet the essence of its value often gets overshadowed by procedural or tool-based interpretations. In the recent Building Better Developers podcast, Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche delve into the foundational principles of Agile and its relevance to building better developer habits, emphasizing adaptability and continuous improvement. Here’s a summary of their key insights and practical takeaways for cultivating an Agile mindset. Understanding Agile: A Framework, Not a Formula Agile isn’t a fixed set of tools or methodologies but a mindset underpinned by the Agile Manifesto’s four core values: These values encourage focusing on people and outcomes, not rigid structures. Agile allows flexibility in navigating challenges, fostering collaboration, and driving solutions that truly... Read more

Cloud Development Habits: How to Stay Ahead in Tech
Posted on Building Better Habits

Cloud Development Habits: How to Stay Ahead in Tech

In the fast-paced world of technology, staying relevant means continually adapting to new tools and paradigms. One of the most transformative shifts in recent years has been the rise of cloud computing. In this episode of the Building Better Developers podcast, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche explore how cultivating smart cloud development habits can help you stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting your journey, embracing cloud technologies can enhance your skills, expand your capabilities, and open doors to exciting opportunities. From practical tips on leveraging free-tier cloud services to insights on earning valuable certifications, this discussion is packed with actionable advice to help you master the cloud and boost your career.... Read more

Developer Tools That Transform: Habits for Smarter Development
Posted on Building Better Habits

Developer Tools That Transform: Habits for Smarter Development

In the ever-evolving world of software development, the tools you use can either streamline your workflow or slow you down. Mastering the right developer tools isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about transforming how you approach challenges and fostering habits that drive smarter, more effective development. The Building Better Developers podcast dives deep into this topic, exploring how thoughtful tool selection and intentional habits can lead to meaningful growth and productivity. Let’s explore how developer tools can be a catalyst for transformation in your work. Why Developer Tools Matter The podcast emphasizes that developer tools are not just about improving efficiency—they shape how we think and solve problems. Tools like integrated development environments (IDEs), task management software, and even simple utilities help... Read more

How to Build Better Habits with Coding Standards
Posted on Building Better Habits

How to Build Better Habits with Coding Standards

Season after season, the “Building Better Developers” podcast inspires tech enthusiasts to refine their craft by fostering productive habits. In a recent episode, hosts Rob Broadhead and Michael Meloche emphasized coding standards—a crucial but often overlooked pillar in software development. Here’s a deep dive into their insights on how personal and team-wide coding standards can elevate your development game. Why Coding Standards Matter At its core, coding standards provide consistency and clarity. Whether you’re an independent developer or part of a large team, they serve as a guideline for writing clean, maintainable, and professional code. Rob pointed out that following standards is not about adhering to rigid rules but about making life easier—for yourself and your team. Michael added a... Read more