Dev Dawn

Some 10 years ago I was working on my first multi dll application. There were 5+ programmers and we had no version control software. We had previously no need for any software to manage development - so we came up with our own solution.

How did it work??? The answer was suprisingly LOW TECH.

The application had about 15 to 20 modules EXEs and DLLs. Each module was assigned a Shoe Box with its name written on the lid.

Initially the idea was to also include a floppy disk with the code inside the Shoe Box - but that simply gave way the mantra “If you don’t have the Box - don’t touch Boxes code!”

Seems simple but was extremely effective.

Developers use to have two or three boxes stacked up outside their offices, that way everyone knew who had which module.

Also those developers who had too many modules or were having difficulty with some code in a module were easily identified as well. Too many boxes stacked at the door to their office.

Developers who needed a box that someone else had - were required to go to that developer’s office and demonstrate their need thus aiding in subtle internal team motivation.

This suprisingly low tech solution - saved money and time. We were able to meet an unreasonable deadline set by those pesky GENERATION Zers again.

Lateral thinking is the fore runner to inspired solutions to problems of all kinds.

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