June 11, 2003
Actual vs perceived quality
Here's a theory: Take two competing software companies. The company that can define and reach a larger market will have a more stable product than its competitor, but will suffer from a lower perceived quality from a growing number of users.
Why? Because the product with a larger usage base gives more feedback to the developers, which gives them more information, which gives them a better chance to improve the product.
Why the lower perceived quality though? The downside is that for any single user, their needs and expectations may go beyond what the program provides.
Developers often joke that a perfect program is one that is never used. It's true. With no users the perceived quality is 100%. But in actuality the program has a very high likelihood that it will fail in just a few minutes of use.
Am I all wet? How does this rule apply to Linux vs Unix or accounting packages or mainframe software versus minicomputer apps versus PC software or the Mac versus Lisa?
Posted by Loren at June 11, 2003 11:18 PMQuality Software is subjective. Peoples opionions are subjective. Level of knowledge, and application of knowledge are two different things.
Interested in Quality? Look up Edward Demmings?
He can give you some ideas on quality. Then apply this to software.
If you listen to everyone else, you would never do anything, or you will end up doing everything for everyone else. Have a lot of people who like to have me do stuff. They don't like to pay for it thought.
So, follow your dreams, getting paid for it is a bonus! :)
Posted by: John Lauman on June 13, 2003 11:41 PM