Creative Programming

“Software development is a kissing cousin of engineering (if not an engineering discipline itself), and blends creativity with math and science. That’s why I find that a lot of advice to creative types is also applicable to software developers.” - Joey deVilla

Creativity is something which we generally do not relate to programming/software development. Typically we consider software development to be highly algorithmic in nature, where you can define what you want and how you can implement it. But essentially, its not the only thing which defines a software. I think software development is one such field where invention happens every now and then. I am not talking about new technologies being released; I am talking about the programs that we write everyday. Everyday we write something unique, for our product or project. But why are we so reluctant to recognize these creations? Partly because, these things are often taken for granted by most of the customers. Some ( or many) cases it is even worse, as the managers also do the same. This phenomenon is so dominant that many non-developers think anything is possible in software and it can be developed in “no time”. Especially this is applicable to IT services, where big fat non-IT customers pay big chunk of money to expect a miracle to happen, as if overnight they will become a market leader or reduce their production cost or whatever reason they are developing the system for. Although not all customers are like this, but most of them are. In this mess; most of the time; the creativity remains unnoticed. Even the developers themselves don’t realize that they actually created something to be proud of.

Creativity is highly relative. Don’t get deceived by thinking that, it is just about implementing any software. All developers do that. The difference lies in creating original idea and problem solving.

Original idea: Sometimes, a simple idea makes a big difference. This is not only applicable to features of a software, but also the way softwares are implemented. Many times this has something to do with mixing different technologies/approaches. Its the uniqueness of how you have solved a problem.

Problem solving: Many times it turns out that the conventional tools are not sufficient. Many developers just beat around the bush, hoping to get some solution. But creative ones, can differentiate between what’s possible and what’s not. When it is not possible, they create something on their own. I always believe that developers who go by their intuition get things right in this department, than sheer intellectuals. Definitely, being intellectual helps, but there are cases when you also need intuition of how things should work. This helps to create radically new solutions to many problems, which otherwise wasn’t possible. For some reasons, we Indians give extremely high importance to intellect, talent and analytical power.

Laptop Care to Avoid Laptop Repairs

When a laptop is not properly taken care of, there are several things that can go wrong, leading you to need laptop repairs. By keeping a few tips in mind, you can properly take care of your new laptop. With proper care, you will not have to worry about losing all of your important documents or pictures. If you are going off to school, then you no doubt bought your laptop with the intentions that it would last you for all four years of school. Since most schools require you to have a laptop nowadays, keeping yours in top condition is important. If something does happen to your laptop, however, there are laptop repair options available. There are services that offer laptop repairs and screen repairs, as well, and many of these options are affordable.

If your laptop breaks down and you take it to where you bought it, chances are that they are going to try to talk you into purchasing a new one. On the other hand, if you take it to someone that knows how to repair laptops, this can save you a lot of hard earned money. There are, however, problems with laptops that are not easily fixed. Your first order of business is to protect your laptop as much as possible from actions that could cause it harm. For instance, keeping it in a laptop case is a very good idea when your computer is not in use. If the laptop gets dropped or something were to be dropped on it, then it is at least a bit more protected, especially if you have purchased a hard case for your laptop.

Many people nowadays purchase screen protectors for their cellphones, and these are even available for laptops. These are handy if you do not want to have to carry your laptop in a case all the time. This will at least protect your screen from damage. Also, if you are not using the computer, be sure to close the lid to avoid damage in that respect, as well.

It may not always be comfortable to sit behind a desk to write a paper or to take notes on your laptop, so many college students sit on their beds to do homework. While this may be more comfortable, it is very bad for your laptop as it needs air to breathe. If you prefer sitting on your bed to do your work, there are fans that you can purchase that will help keep your computer running cool so as not to overheat it. These fans are not bulky and they are powered by the power within your laptop.

It is always good to keep food and drinks away from your computer when you can. If you have access, it is also a good idea to install virus protection software, as well. If you normally use your laptop to watch videos or movies, chances are that you also eat around your laptop which can be devastating if something spills. Take the precaution to take care of your computer as best you can and it will last you for many years of great service. When you are ready for a new computer, you can take your old one to a place that will recycle laptops.