GREAT

Nice rant from Phil today, Regular Ol' Developer.

Joel is again talking about the best way to get Great Developers. Lots of people chime in about how they themselves are great developers, or their tips and tricks for getting great developers. It's articles like this that make me feel a little left out, because I know by Joel's standards I am not a great developer.
...
What would I be looking for if I were hiring?

1)Ambition
2)Ability to learn and adapt quickly
3)Creativity
4)Able to handle stress well
5)Experience
6)Be well rounded and fluent in customer service

I can identify with this. I love being involved with software and participating in the Micro ISV community. I love writing software and trying to solve problems, I get a real kick out of solving a real world problem for someone. And I like trying to tie everything together and run an actual business. Being regarded as a great developer is pretty low on my list of priorities.

I'm more impressed by Patrick's commitment to mastering his ad copy and conversion tracking, or Andy Brice's commitment to the perfect landing page, than of some l33t c++ skills or having the fastest sort algorithm. Many would sneer at Bob Walsh for using VB, but his tireless enthusiasm and Micro ISV evangelism never ceases to amaze me.

If you have an idea for some software and want to start a Micro ISV, but are waiting until you feel like a "great" developer, get over yourself and just get on with it. You don't need to be a great developer, you need most or all of the qualities Phil listed, an idea (preferably for something which non-technical people need), and domain knowledge (if you don't have it yourself, consider finding a partner or advisor). Once you jump in you'll be able to pick everything else up along the way, just try to learn as much as you can and enjoy the ride.

Tag: micro isv