Better Software Magazine Archive:

April 2005

IN THIS ISSUE

The Expert as Impediment
By Brian Marick

Turn to The Last Word, where software professionals who care about quality give you their opinions on hot topics. This month, Brian Marick offers advice on why people are sometimes right to resist experts.

A Look at Visual Studio 2005
By Mark Michaelis

Need to get the scoop on the latest software tests and trends? You've come to the right place. Get one reviewer’s opinion of Microsoft’s Visual Studio 2005.

Watir Works
By Jonathan Kohl
Paul Rogers

Test automation of Web applications can be done more effectively by accessing the plumbing within the user interface. Kohl and Rogers offer a nuts and bolts look at Watir, a tool many are using to check the pipes.

It Takes Two to Tango: What You Should Know About Pair Programming
By Rachel Davies

Pair programming is an Agile practice that has been shown to greatly improve code quality without a huge increase in development time. This article explains the ins and outs of pair programming and some things you need to consider before you tell team members to grab a partner and get programming.

Injecting Testability into Your Test Designs
By J.B. Rainsberger

The term dependency injection has attained buzzword status within the programming community. Follow Agile developer J.B. Rainsberger as he goes beyond the buzz and breaks down a specific example of how injecting a dependency can improve the testability of your design.

Changing How You Manage Change
By Naomi Karten

Every manager has a story to tell. Find out how one management professional tackles a fictional dilemma. The story may be made up, but the solutions are tried and true. In the first installment of this series of columns, Naomi Karten offers tips on how to handle change in the workplace.

Tame the Name
By Mike Clark

All code is not created equal. Learn from a master of the craft how to spot bad code and mold it into good. In the first iteration of this monthly column, learn why selecting names for classes, methods, and variables is an art you'll want to perfect.

The Pleasure of Finding Things Out
By Michael Bolton

Connect with an expert to learn how to work smarter and learn new techniques to uncover more defects. In the first installment of this recurring column, Michael Bolton revels in the joy of discovery.

Why Agile Projects Don't Thrash
By Ronald E. Jeffries

Tension is present on every software project. It comes from the stress of ensuring the software is fit for its purpose, which often leads to multiple changes. Find out why agile projects handle change better than most, and learn three things you can try on your next project to keep change in check.

Stop Listening to Your Users
By Mike Cohn

Just because you have a problem does not mean you are the best person to solve it. In this issue's Technically Speaking, Mike Cohn recommends truly involving users as participants in the process instead of just asking them what they want.

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