Operators, Not Users and Programmers
10 months ago
- #programming
- #usability
- #technology
- The distinction between 'users' and 'programmers' is criticized as limiting agency, advocating for a unified 'operator' role.
- Spreadsheets exemplify successful malleable software due to immediate feedback and ease of use without specialized programming knowledge.
- Historical computing often involved non-specialists in programming roles, suggesting programming should be accessible without formal training.
- Modern enterprise technology often removes user agency, contrasting with the flexibility of tools like spreadsheets.
- Malleable systems combine features like hot-patching, live previews, and undo/redo to make programming more intuitive.
- Examples of malleable systems include spreadsheets, WYSIWYG editors, browser devtools, and live-coding environments like Sonic Pi.
- Version control in malleable systems is more accessible, like Google Drive, but lacks advanced features of traditional VCS.
- Malleable deployment systems, like Bank Python's vouch system, allow for easy approval and instant deployment.
- Desired features for malleable systems include hot-reloading, continuous durability, distributed version control, automated testing, and easy continuous deployment.
- The series aims to explore how to create systems that are both powerful and accessible, enabling more people to program.