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Problem is, boutique implies specialty. In tech, specialties involve short term expertise. Experience works against specialists in our field, whereas in fields
by aswanson 13y ago
Problem is, boutique implies specialty. In tech, specialties involve short term expertise. Experience works against specialists in our field, whereas in fields like law and medicine, specialization is likely to increase value over a career lifetime. We are up against a far more sinister s-curve in the experience/perceived utility equation.
- sjg007 13y agoI would argue that specialization in software is more about delivering solutions and value. I agree that in general technology evolves, but there is clearly a 20+ year lifespan for some technologies. Cobol is still in demand. As a botique software shop you offer a company critical business infrastructure that gives them an edge. 90% of the software in business is developed or customized for the client. As developers we don't necessarily like it because it is not always elegant or optimal but it exists.
- jazzyk 13y agoAnd how many Cobol jobs do you see advertised? Close to zero. I am an independent consultant, with 20+ years of experience. Let me tell you, noone who is looking to hire me gives a damn what I did 5 or 10 years ago. The technical problems (and tools used to solve them) 10 years ago were very different than today (even though you and I know that certain principles remain the same). I work pretty hard to remain current/relevant. I often joke that software engineers should be paid like star athletes or actors - their shelf time is limited.
- aswanson 13y agoExactly.