Does everyone hate programming?

Boy! Lately, everyone is writing about how much they hate coding and software.

August 3rd, 2009 at 6:00am — Comments: (1) — By: Jonathan Danylko — Tags: Developers

After reading Mr. Atwood's post (and the comments) about "Nobody Hates Software More Than Software Developers," I realized that not many programmers out there like (love?) their career of working with computers or coding software.

There was another post about the 10 Things I hate about Software Development as well, but, in my opinion, this list goes with the territory. We're all going to experience one (if not more than one) "thing" at one point or another in our career. Some of them go away (like the boss), but that shouldn't hinder you from your passion of programming.

I'm sorry...I'm rambling. Back to the post...

Of course, we've all seen bad code in our career (and yes, that includes my own code), but that's why you're in this business: To make code that accomplishes a certain goal. Period.

Now, whether that code looks good or not...that's another story. That's where the craft of coding comes into play.

You are coupling an understanding of business with computers to create a program that assists a user in completing a particular task for a business to thrive and move forward. This is why you're being paid the big bucks, ladies and gentlemen.

Of course, there are other factors involved, like:

• Usability - Do your users like it?
  
• Maintainability - Can another coding pick up what you're doing and understand the code immediately?
  
• Elegance - Is it a "cool" way of doing something?
• Lines of Code - Does it only take two lines of code to replace 25?

Which brings me to my question: Why ARE you a programmer? Is it because:

• You like solving complex problems?
• You feel a rush when you figure out a particular problem using a creative technique?
• Your users compliment you such on a fantastic application/website?
• Your peers copy your code because it's a "better way of doing things?"
• You like distancing yourself from humans? (just kidding on that one)
  

If you've answered yes to any one of these questions, you are definitely a programmer/developer.

I don't know about you, but when I uncover a better, easier way of coding AND it's maintainable and elegant, I start doing a happy dance.

There have been other posts written about why developers code and why they like it so much:

• Nine things developers want more than money.
• The One Characteristic A Developer Needs For A Successful Career.
• Why Programming is Fun! (Dr. Dobb's Journal Link included)

I guess when you have been in this business for as long as I have, you realize how newbies and veterans code and you learn to adapt to it, discuss it, and enhance it to make a win-win situation for everyone.

As for the installation of additional software, I completely agree with you on that behalf. In regards to programming though, I've always loved developing applications/web sites (and no, it's not a power trip).

Sorry to disagree with you, Jeff, but not every programmer hates to code or hates software.

Why ARE you a programmer? Share your thoughts below in the comments.