At Odds
I am an engineer! It means I examine things, extensively. It means I continually analyze a problem or situation and systematically break them down into smaller problems or situations. I do this so that the big problems can be solved by simpler and smaller means. I have to admit I like it. I like beating a topic, problem, or issue into submission by examining it until by sheer will I can out think the issue at hand, and thus nullify its occurrence.
However, there exists a force in the universe that does not appreciate this. This force is a mile wide and an inch deep. Its nature is to be superficial. Its desire is not to gaze upon any issue or problem for to long because the reality of the details might slow it down. I am at odds with this force. But, it would seem in fact that I am engaged in a relationship with it. It might be better said that there exists a balance between us. I do however question its validity. I question not its function, but its amount. I question the value of these amounts when it comes to being reckless, unrealistic, and blinding. In fact, I hate it and need it as much as it hates and needs me. Because without it I would likely never find a new problem.
All that is left to say is, it sucks, but I can see that it has some value. Its not much in comparison to my own, but then again without it could I be an engineer at all?
If the mouse pointer changes to a hand when you roll-over an image associated with a story the image upon clicking either links to enlarged version of the image or a website associated with the image.
I agree in principal. I guess though, even as engineers, we can use the mile wide and inch deep method to identify the tasks that need to go an inch wide and a mile deep on.
It is when the either statement goes out of control and is ruling your life that bad things can happen. I’ve seen good coders spend far too long engineering something that isn’t important on the grand scale of things. They code away at a problem for huge chunks of time. One coder I know that has been guilty of this looks, feels and speaks like me and I do just the same as him.
I also think the balance of time spent on each method differs for each individual and project. What works for one will not always work for another.
Great post btw. :) I’d only heard term “Mile wide and an inch deep” for the first time two weeks ago! Spooky.