Community vs Isolation

  • Books were my main reference in college
  • I only accidentally found usenet when using the VAX in college
  • In early windows work, MSDN CDs were my main reference
  • Isolation can apply to within the computer also
    • People isolate themselves in one area (java for example)
    • The distinction between admins and developers is artificial
    • Overly complicated systems require specialisation
    • This makes your job harder, and harder to change from
  • Ubiquitous internet changed everything
    • Open Source permeates the internet
    • Collaboration breeds innovation
      • Collaboration isn't always direct
        • Direct: python.ie,linux.ie,... mailing lists and forums
        • Indirect: Open Source software reuse