posted on Wednesday, July 27, 2005 10:34 PM by verbose

Programming craftsmanship

There's been quite a bit of discussion on programming as art vs. programming as craft.  Personally I think of programming as a craft, but as a creative process I can certainly feel how others would say that programming is an art form. Some people don't have an opinion, and personally I feel that's a bit sad.

Ok, I know i'm being a bit sanctimonious, but after this DailyWTF, I need to vent.  Database programming IS a craft, or art, if you prefer.  It's amazing how many developers treat RDMBS as black box without ever wondering what's inside.

I particually like the following thoughts on craft - it's amazing how many times I come up short ...

These are ten important principles for the practice of craft:

Act from principle.
Begin where you are.
Define your aim simply, clearly, briefly.
Establish the possible and move gradually towards the impossible.
Exercise commitment, and all the rules change.
Honor necessity. Honor sufficiency.
Offer no violence.
Suffer cheerfully.
Take our work seriously, but not solemnly.

- Robert Fripp, A Preface to Guitar Craft

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