Software keeps Evolving and is Never Done // Beyond Coding Podcast #37 - Patrick Akil & Jessica Kerr

Duplication Value

The discussion highlights the often overlooked value of code duplication in software development. Patrick Akil argues that allowing different teams to solve the same problem in varied ways can lead to innovation and efficiency, akin to how nature operates 1. He suggests that while efficiency is important, it should not overshadow the creative process inherent in software development. Jessica Kerr agrees, emphasizing that software is about creating something new, not just repeating tasks 2.

The world does not end if you have two pieces of different code that do the same thing.

--- Patrick Akil

This approach encourages knowledge sharing without the constraints of code coupling, fostering a more dynamic development environment.

   

Impact on Development

Focusing solely on efficiency can be detrimental to software development, as Patrick Akil notes, it often leads to increased costs and stifles creativity 2. He and Jessica Kerr discuss the importance of balancing efficiency with innovation, suggesting that direct communication and collaboration can lead to better solutions 3. Jessica highlights that optimizing for a single metric can overlook broader opportunities for improvement.

If you always prioritize the same thing, you'll miss so many opportunities.

--- Patrick Akil

This perspective encourages developers to focus on diverse impacts, enhancing both the engineering experience and code quality.