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Published Sep 18, 2018

89. Does Big O Matter?

    Dive into the world of software development where Alan Underwood and Joe Zack unravel the significance of Big O notation, debate the optimal development environments, and stress the importance of math, clarity, and performance in coding practices. This episode offers key insights into algorithm analysis and programming decision-making, blending theory with real-world applications.
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    • OS Debate

      The debate between Windows and Linux as development environments is ongoing. Alan Underwood and Joe Zack discuss the advantages and drawbacks of each, noting that the Windows Subsystem for Linux has significantly improved Windows' capabilities 1. Joe mentions that while Windows has become more convenient with tools like Docker, he still prefers not to work exclusively on a Linux box 2.

      I feel like you can kind of have your cake and eat it too on the Windows world because there are so many applications and software you could use on it.

      --- Joe Zack

      Alan adds that modern Windows Server versions offer flexibility, such as running headless or with a UI, making it a more viable option for developers 2.

         

      JavaScript

      The JavaScript ecosystem is another hot topic. Joe Zack and Alan Underwood discuss its necessity for modern web applications and the improvements brought by ES6 3. Joe appreciates the rapid iteration of JavaScript but warns that it is on the edge of being overrated.

      If it wasn't for ES6 and some of the nicer stuff they've added, then I would definitely say overrated.

      --- Joe Zack

      Alan highlights the impressive ecosystem around Node.js, comparing it to Java's early days of innovation, but notes that Node.js might be overhyped now 4.

         

      SQL Tips

      For those working with SQL Server, Alan Underwood shares valuable tips on formatting and clipboard functionalities. He explains how the format function in SQL Server simplifies tasks that used to be cumbersome, like padding numbers with zeros 5. Joe adds a tip about Visual Studio's paste special menu, which can convert copied XML or JSON into classes 6.

      The format function in SQL Server is essentially using the .NET format function under the covers, making it extremely useful and easy to do.

      --- Alan Underwood

      These tips can significantly enhance productivity and streamline workflows for developers.

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