Category: Development

What Can Be Done to Make Code Quality Better?

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

This article explores the critical issue of code quality in software development. The author, with years of experience in advocating for coding standards, shares insights from fellow developers on how to enhance code quality. Key suggestions include emphasizing unit testing, code comments, and better training, while addressing ego-related challenges in code reviews. The article underscores the importance of fostering a culture of quality and incorporating coding standards into education. It highlights the need for a strong commitment to code quality in today's security-focused software landscape. Ultimately, the article offers actionable ideas for improving code quality within development teams.

dotNetDave Says… Documenting Software Projects

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

Proper documentation is essential in software development, regardless of methodology, to ensure effective collaboration among developers, QA, and tech support. Skipping documentation increases costs significantly and hinders productivity, especially with new team members. Effective planning and structured documentation help prevent issues and contribute to sustainable software architecture.

New Book Release! Rock Your Code: Code & App Performance for Microsoft.NET

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

Today I am announcing the brand new edition of my book titled Rock Your Code: Code & App Performance for Microsoft .NET, now available on Amazon. How fast your code executes is very important for your users and back-end server processes. This is even more important for the future as more and more users, use … Continue reading New Book Release! Rock Your Code: Code & App Performance for Microsoft.NET →

Debugging Tips and Tricks Part 1

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

Check out the video from Channel 9 to get a few really useful tips to debug your code in .NET and C++. https://channel9.msdn.com/Shows/Visual-Studio-Toolbox/Debugging-Tips-and-Tricks-Part-1

Code Quality: A Fundamental Feature, Not an Afterthought

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

The author, as a contractor, observes a worrying trend of poor code quality across projects, often overseen by senior engineers. Despite advocating for clean coding practices through teaching and writing, companies prioritize short-term gains over long-term maintainability. The author urges developers to prioritize code quality and leverage available resources for improvement.

5 Rules for Your Source Control Repository

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

I have been using source control programs for a very long time. I believe the first one was Visual Source Safe (don’t laugh, it was a painful experience). Early in my career and throughout I have learned many good practices that I still use to this day. I will share them with you now. If … Continue reading 5 Rules for Your Source Control Repository →

If I Ran a Software Company: My Vision for Trust, Innovation, and Teamwork – Part 2

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

The article outlines initiatives for leading a software company, emphasizing the importance of providing top-tier computers and tools for engineers, fostering open communication, and reducing workplace stress. Key strategies include regular one-on-one engagement, avoiding problematic code deployment days, organizing hackathons, and implementing competitive compensation and healthcare, aimed at creating a productive, innovative work environment.

Quality of Software Is Getting Worse, Not Better in 2018

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

For many years now the theme for all my conference talks has been “Improving Code Quality, One Developer at a Time™”. My only goal with my sessions for the foreseeable future is all wrapped around this idea for these reasons I will discuss. First, as a contractor, the code that I see is for the … Continue reading Quality of Software Is Getting Worse, Not Better in 2018 →

If I Ran a Software Company My Vision for Trust, Innovation, and Teamwork – Part 1

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

The author, a seasoned software engineer, emphasizes the importance of trust and collaboration in software companies. Sharing personal experiences, he advocates for a supportive work environment tailored to developers' needs, highlights effective expense management at Quicken Loans, and stresses integrating Quality Assurance and sales teams early in the development process for better outcomes.

Confessions of an Angry Programmer

Posted on by David (dotNetDave) McCarter

The article discusses the author's commitment to improve code quality in software development, emphasizing the alarming deficiencies in code quality found in many applications. The author highlights statistics from a live application and provides insights into tools and practices for achieving better code quality. Additionally, the article includes an update on the ongoing importance of code quality in software engineering.