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If Software Development IS a War, Who Is the Enemy?

by Karl E. Wiegers

Several recent experiences have left me concerned that the field of software development feels more like a war zone than a stimulating and challenging way to earn a living. One magazine editor I spoke with used several military metaphors, including describing a project manager who "snatched defeat from the jaws of victory." A thoughtful essay I read pondered whether software development was more like warfare or the culture of a monastery. I've even used terms like "in the heat of battle" during my seminar presentations. These experiences make me wonder: If we're engaged in a war, whom are we fighting?

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If Software Development IS a War, Who Is the Enemy? 3 March 1999

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Cutter Consortium, founded in 1986, is a global IT advisory firm helping organizations forge solutions to the business technology challenges they face. Through its research, consulting, and training, Cutter assists enterprises as they create, implement, and maintain IT systems and organizations that support business objectives and encourage innovation. Cutter pushes the thinking in the field by fostering debate and collaboration between thought leaders from different domains, countries, and disciplines. As a completely independent entity that has no special ties to vendors, Cutter Consortium is beholden to no one and dedicated to providing completely objective, unbiased information to its clients. Cutter Consortium gives you access to the top thinkers in IT.

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