looking ahead
Posted on General

Looking Ahead to 2018

We recently looked back at the advances of 2017.  There were a lot of changes, and it looks like 2018 will continue the momentum.  So, as we wrap up 2017, it is time to start looking ahead to 2018. Looking Ahead at Java The big thing in 2018 is likely to be Java and all of the changes in the new version.  Although Java 9 was introduced towards the end of 2017, it will take time to be implemented.  There will be some pilot projects in early 2018 I am sure.  However, the second half of the year should see a push for developers that have some Java 9 experience.  As usual, it takes time to back in the new changes... Read more

Posted on Podcast

Development Language Families

Across the hundreds of programming languages, there are some similarities.  These even fall into types of development language families.  When you are looking at how to expand your technical skills these complementary languages can speed your growth.  The key is to start with fundamentals and use those to grow to less common problems that are solved with code. Start With a Good Foundation The key to rapid learning and mastering of languages is to start with core or general purpose languages.  The ones that fall into this category include popular languages like C, C++, C#, Java.  Also, there are lesser-known ones like ADA, Fortran, and Pascal.  These general purpose languages are perfect for learning concepts like logic, data structures, file interactions,... Read more

Posted on Podcast

Staying Healthy and Exercise for The Insanely Busy

We have a full schedule and are always busy.  That is no excuse for skipping exercise.  In fact, staying healthy is a critical key to success.  In this episode, we look at some ways to keep your body healthy.  Better yet, how to do this without sacrificing too much of that all-important resource: time. Staying Healthy is About Habits We have seen how success in any area is best predicted by good habits.  Health is no different.  When we are intentional about our health, we can find ways to build practices that achieve that goal.  The good news is that we can do simple things like changing our work venue.  Thus, we can get some exercise while we work.  An... Read more

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Underpromise and Overdeliver for Long-term Success

There is an old saying that we should underpromise and overdeliver.  This may seem obvious to us, but it is worth considering in our career and business.  In fact, this approach is one of the best recipes for success in both your individual career and that of your company or employer. Underpromise and Overdeliver to Separate from Competition There are many ways to appeal to customers, but this concept is not often put forward.  The underlying message follows these lines, but it is rarely stated.  Instead, we often see marketing focus on quality, features, and other things that are easy to market.  Value does touch on this concept, but it does not rise to the same level in my mind. ... Read more

Posted on Podcast

Databases – An Overview and Introduction

Like any area of technology, there is a lot to know about databases.  We are not going to cover all of them.  In this episode, we will look at popular modern databases and keep to a non-technical overview. Databases Come In Many Types There are many database solutions available on the market.  These range from the familiar relational databases to lesser-used ones like object databases.  Each of these has its own set of strengths and weaknesses to be assessed for your needs.  The only way to be capable of this sort of assessment is to become familiar with the types out there and the projects that are best for each. They Are Easy To Use The good news is that we have a large number... Read more