As a programmer I think one of the most important attributes one can have is consistency and the ability to analyze situations. Through my career I have found a consistant set of problems faced in projects.

Creature of Habit

I would call myself a creature of habit - just listen to my morning routine…

• Wake up, walk downstairs
• Make 6 cups of coffee
• Pee
• Make a Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwich (Smucker’s Seedless Blackberry Raspberry & Smooth JIF)
• Pour my coffee over 1 ice cube
• Sit in my spot at the table and proceed with breakfast
• Take my shower and go to work

To me, this makes logical sense. I know that from the time I wake up until the time I leave for work 35 minutes go by, and I know it works - I’ve been doing it for years!

I’m not alone!

I’m not the only one who finds comfort in patterns. As a Software Engineer I study and implement design patters. Design Patters provide a common, proven, peer reviewed solution to common problems. Many highly skilled engineers I have talked to recommend learning design patterns as one of the best way to improve one’s skills.

Writers of Design Patterns, Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software, aka “The Gang of Four Book”, recognized the need for patterns and published their book way back in 1994. Personally, I am a big fan of the Head First Series, so I chose to start with Head First Design Patterns.

I love patterns

With software patterns I am able to analyze the task at hand and choose the appropriate solution. The solutions follow a consistant implementation and are open to customization to meet project requirements.