The (slightly) technical dilemma…

The other day I went through a much forwarded news paper article. It was about this new class of techies called the “Softicians”. So what did the article talk about? Go read it

More importantly, the point of discussion was how a lot of “NON IT” crowd is flowing into this domain and how they’re finding it difficult to survive. The start to their careers is a dream one – A hefty package, 6-7 months of relaxation (which is also called training or the more eclectic “ORIENTATION” in some IT cos) and then the actual  work with an awesome crowd and all the office perks. The dream comes crashing down sooner than later.

The fundamental flaw is the reason or more so the lack-of, to initiate a career in this sector. How many techies know what is the real difference between the 2 terms CODING and PROGRAMMING. More importantly how many know whether they code or program? The truth is coding is something ANY trained individual can perform. Good coding is a totally different matter which is more or less a myth! Programming is the art. The art of problem solving. The programmer is like Arjuna and the parrot’s eye is the target, the problem to be solved. The bow and arrow are like programming languages, mere tools. He could very well attain his task with a pointed piece of wood, a sharp dart or any other means. If there was a strong wind blowing accompanied with some heavy showers, Arjuna would have to improvise. And the programmer, when he has to improvise his only tool is his logical or lateral thinking ability. THIS is what is missing and this is the fundamental flaw.

I would be grossly unfair if I would generalise this trait with all the mechanical, chemical(ceramic!) engineers who drfited into this realm. This trait is common with anyone who was never been passionate about programming, who never wanted to put his problem solving skills to test, who believed “KNOWING” Java would be all that he required, who thinks Linux is cool but Windows is user friendly, who feels lost within 2 years of “Coding”, who hates “programming” in anything other than .NET.

Only by considering your self as an empty pot can you fill more. This saying becomes all the more relevant when it comes to technology. I have realised that to think that you know some technology in and out is suicide. There is ALWAYS more to learn and the only finite constant. There is just not enough time. This is the dilemma and there is no way out…