Software development best practices and processes
The enterprise software development landscape has changed drastically with the rise of Kotlin, Clojure, Python and JavaScript. From a focus on functional programming to new takes on object-oriented analysis and design, Java programmers and JDK architects can learn from these languages' development processes and software engineering best practices.
Top Stories
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Tip
18 Dec 2024
13 must-know Markdown tips and tricks
Use these tips to improve your Markdown-based documentation, streamline your approach and structure your documents. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Dec 2024
Webhook security: Risks and best practices for mitigation
Webhook security is an ongoing process, with responsibility shared between providers and consumers to protect against threats and ensure a secure webhook ecosystem. Continue Reading
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Video
09 Apr 2024
Top REST API URL naming convention standards
There is no official REST URL naming standard. However, these 15 RESTful API naming conventions will help you create highly interoperable web services. Continue Reading
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Video
04 Apr 2024
How Java 17 records work
Devs aren't using Java 17 records nearly enough. With the power to clean up your code and make your apps faster, Java records should be the norm and not the exception. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
27 Mar 2024
How the saga design pattern in microservices works
When a sequence of steps must be performed to support an operation, the microservices saga design pattern is a perfect fit. Continue Reading
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Video
27 Mar 2024
Do the 5 Scrum values really add value?
Do the Scrum Guide's five values really provide value as proponents claim? A scientific examination suggests they should be a lot more helpful to software development teams. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2024
low-code and no-code development platforms
Low-code/no-code development platforms are software development tools and environments that allow enterprise developers and citizen developers to create new applications using drag-and-drop components, linking them together and creating mobile or web apps. Continue Reading
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Feature
14 Mar 2024
Summit speakers break down new era of developing software
Top thought leaders discuss their strategies to choose the right software development process and to best utilize AI and ML in this comprehensive BrightTALK summit. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2024
Applying Kanban principles to software development
Kanban was conceptualized in manufacturing and later adopted by software development teams, alongside other methodologies, such as Lean and Scrum. Learn to apply Kanban principles. Continue Reading
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Video
12 Mar 2024
Full Java constructors tutorial
How well do you know how Java constructors work? This quick Java constructors tutorial teaches you about defaults, overloading, initializing and parameterizing constructors in Java. Continue Reading
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Video
12 Mar 2024
Learn how to use GitLab tutorial for beginners
GitLab is a complete CI/CD platform. But to really understand GitLab, you must also understand its namesake Git. This Git and GitLab tutorial will get you up to speed on both. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Mar 2024
Understanding code linting techniques and tools
Linting is an important preliminary step in the debugging process. Learn how fixing simple errors early on makes code easier to work with and improves coding practices. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Mar 2024
declarative programming
Declarative programming is a method to abstract the control flow for logic required for software to perform an action. Instead, it involves stating what the task or desired outcome is. Continue Reading
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Video
23 Feb 2024
Top 10 differences between GitHub and Git
Enterprise development teams need to know these major differences between Git and GitHub, but also how they serve different purposes and be used together effectively. Continue Reading
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Video
22 Feb 2024
Why we use static final in Java for constants
Java doesn't have global constants per se, but it does have static final variables. Here we explore how these two keywords make a variable constant in Java. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Feb 2024
Top 9 smart contract platforms to consider in 2024
Platform speed, scalability, security and smart contract development support vary widely. Here's how to match features to your needs plus the lowdown on the major players. Continue Reading
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Video
08 Feb 2024
How to set a Git username and password in Git config
There's a way to stop Git from repeatedly asking you for a username and password. Just set your username and password in Git config. Continue Reading
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Video
07 Feb 2024
Git vs. GitHub: What's the difference?
Git and GitHub involve similar technology but are different in several important ways. Here's what you need to understand to get the most out of these key developer tools. Continue Reading
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Definition
31 Jan 2024
state management
Application state management is the process of maintaining knowledge of an application's inputs across multiple related data flows that form a complete business transaction -- or a session -- to understand the condition of the app at any given moment. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2024
2024 technology predictions around AI, Mojo and blockchain
Blockchain, AI, anti-competitive activity and the new programming language Mojo are sure to fill the headlines in 2024. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Jan 2024
Java
Java is a widely used programming language expressly designed for coding applications and services used in the distributed environment of the internet. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Jan 2024
Debunking 5 blockchain myths and misconceptions
There's more to blockchain development than what you hear from the crypto community. Here, we debunk five common blockchain myths. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
18 Jan 2024
Finding duplicate entries in a list in Python
A common problem in computing is to find out if a list contains duplicate entries. It's also a good subject to explore various ways to solve a problem. In this case, we will see the performance ... Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2024
polyglot programming
Polyglot programming is the practice of writing code in multiple languages to capture additional functionality and efficiency not available in a single language. Continue Reading
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Definition
05 Jan 2024
beta test
In software development, a beta test is the second phase of software testing in which a sampling of the intended audience tries out the product. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jan 2024
How to write a sprint goal in Scrum
The product of every sprint planning session is a sprint goal. Here, we look at its purpose along with how to write a sprint goal properly. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Dec 2023
The benefits of using compiled regex in Python and Java
Whether you're programming in Java or Python, compiled regex can significantly speed up your text manipulation routines. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Dec 2023
Shorter code, fewer bugs: Python's syntax is its saving grace
Is shorter code too dense and hard to parse, or is it inherently more efficient and secure? Here's why Python's compact syntax tends toward less buggy code. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Dec 2023
How to set up Python coding standards for a dev team
Python team leaders have two challenges when it comes to code standards: creating a style guide and getting developers to stick to it. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
17 Dec 2023
How to code your first Mojo program
There's a new programming language named Mojo in the works that is set to revolutionize AI and ML while fixing all that's wrong with Python. Here is how to code your first Mojo program. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Dec 2023
citizen development
Citizen development is a business process that encourages non-IT-trained employees to become software developers, using IT-sanctioned low-code/no-code (LCNC) platforms to create business applications. Continue Reading
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Answer
01 Dec 2023
11 real benefits of microservices
There's a reason why so many vendors have moved from monoliths to microservices. Here are 11 real benefits microservices bring to companies. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2023
What does the Python 'if name equals main' construct do?
Ever wonder what Python's if name equals main syntax does? Here we explore what it does and when to use it. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Oct 2023
What does a SAFe Scrum master do differently?
What's the difference between a Scrum master and SAFe Scrum master/team coach? Not much, but you should understand their slightly distinct approaches in day-to-day practice. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Oct 2023
9 tips to improve Python performance
Python performance gets a bad rap compared with languages such as Java. Use these tips to identify and fix problems in your Python code to tweak its performance. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Oct 2023
Scrum master interview questions and answers
Want to ace the Scrum master interview? These tough Scrum master questions and answers will help you prepare. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
30 Aug 2023
10 reasons to use Kotlin
Curious about the Kotlin language? It's an excellent choice as either a companion or alternative to Java, and offers many capabilities Java programmers wish they had all along. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
29 Aug 2023
How to git push an existing project to GitHub
If you start development before you set up version control, you may need to push your development project to an existing GitHub repo. This Git and GitHub example shows you the fastest way to ... Continue Reading
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Definition
22 Aug 2023
Unified Modeling Language (UML)
Unified Modeling Language (UML) is a standard notation for modeling real-world objects as a first step in designing an object-oriented system. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jul 2023
The dangers of Python import and how enterprises can be safe
The Python import statement carries a security risk that developers and enterprises need to watch out for. Here's how it works and why there's no easy fix. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jul 2023
Scrum vs. SAFe: How to choose between top Agile frameworks
Which Agile framework is the best fit for your organization: Scrum vs. SAFe? Follow these guidelines and advice to determine which best fits your needs -- and it might be both. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
19 Jul 2023
Sprint vs Scrum: What's the difference?
The comparison of Scrum versus a sprint is less about differences and more about how Agile frameworks such as Scrum, SAFe and XP use short development cycles to limit risk and keep stakeholders ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
10 Jul 2023
Scrum's chicken and pigs parable
In a ham and eggs breakfast, the chicken is involved, but the pig's 100% committed. That's the problematic basis of Scrum's chicken and pigs parable. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2023
How to apply the open-closed principle in Java
How does the open-closed SOLID principle work in a Java program? Here we show you what this important principle means, and how to implement the open-closed principle in Java. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jun 2023
5 noteworthy challenges of automotive software development
Modern cars are loaded with technology, but creating in-vehicle applications isn't always a cakewalk. Here are five unique challenges developers face with automotive software. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2023
loose coupling
Loose coupling is an approach to interconnecting the components in a system, network or software application so that those components, also called elements, depend on each other to the least extent practicable. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jun 2023
Introduction to Solidity: Build an Ethereum smart contract
This introduction to Solidity tutorial walks you through a real-world example that flexes the power of this programming language: building a Solidity smart contract. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jun 2023
daily stand-up meeting
A daily stand-up meeting is a short organizational meeting that is held each day. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Jun 2023
git stash
Git stash is a built-in command that stores, or stashes, changes in the software development tool Git that aren't yet ready to be committed. Continue Reading
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Quiz
20 Jun 2023
More Scrum master certification exam questions
To pass the Professional Scrum master exam, you need to know the tricks. These Scrum master exam questions will show you how to answer even the toughest questions on the test. Continue Reading
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Quiz
20 Jun 2023
Scrum master certification exam questions and answers
Are you ready for the Scrum master certification exam? Test yourself on these 10 tough Scrum master exam questions and answers. Continue Reading
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Quiz
20 Jun 2023
More Scrum product owner certification exam questions
Want to get Scrum product owner-certified? These tough practice exam questions test your ability to apply the Scrum framework in the capacity of a Professional Scrum Product Owner. Continue Reading
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Quiz
20 Jun 2023
Scrum product owner certification exam questions and answers
Here are 10 tough sample Scrum product owner exam questions and answers to help gauge your readiness for the certification test. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Jun 2023
polymorphism
Polymorphism is a popular concept in object-oriented programming (OOP), referring to the idea that an entity in code such as a variable, function or object can have more than one form. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jun 2023
Cloud-native development still a work in progress for companies
Enterprise Strategy Group's Paul Nashawaty breaks down the research firm's latest survey on the state of cloud-native application development. The picture isn't perfect. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jun 2023
How to create a smart contract using Ethereum
Solidity is a powerful language for programming and deploying smart contracts on the Ethereum network. Here's how to get started, with advice on choosing the best tools. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Jun 2023
9 programming languages for smart contract development
There are languages expressly for smart contract development, but you can also use general-purpose languages like C++ and Java. Here's how they differ, and advice on how to choose. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Jun 2023
internationalization (I18N)
Internationalization is the process of designing and building a product so that it can be easily adapted to specific languages and cultures. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
25 May 2023
Is the daily Scrum recommended for colocated teams?
Is the daily Scrum recommended for colocated teams? Yes, yes it is. Any suggestion that the daily Scrum is not recommended for colocated teams is false. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2023
5 Scrum servant leader examples
The term 'servant leader' was removed from the 2020 Scrum Guide, but that doesn't mean it's not important. Here are five examples of a Scrum master as a servant leader. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 May 2023
How to address Python performance problems
Python is a great language for nonprogrammers to do mathematical and scientific tasks, even if such optimization impacts performance. Here's why that's not a fair criticism. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 May 2023
Scrum vs. Waterfall: What's the difference?
Most organizations choose between Waterfall and Agile methodologies, which often means comparing Scrum vs. Waterfall. Here are the differences and some guidance on how to choose. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Apr 2023
Smart contracts, blockchain and decentralized computing
Industries such as manufacturing and finance are turning to decentralized computing technologies, in the form of smart contracts and blockchains, to solve complex problems. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Apr 2023
Amdahl's law
Amdahl's law -- also known as Amdahl's argument -- is an intuitive observation and an associated formula. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Apr 2023
Agile Manifesto
The Agile Manifesto is a document that identifies four key values and 12 principles that its authors believe software developers should use to guide their work. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Apr 2023
How to avoid remote software engineer burnout
Software developer burnout is real. Here are some strategies programmers can use to avoid it. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2023
JavaScript vs. TypeScript: What's the difference?
TypeScript and JavaScript are two complementary technologies that are driving both front-end and back-end development. Here are the similarities and differences between the two. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2023
How to apply the single responsibility principle in Java
How does the single responsibility model work in a Java program? Here we show you what this SOLID principle means, and how to implement the single responsibility model in Java. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2023
Ways to get by when Waterfall development reigns
Against all odds, the Waterfall methodology maintains a tight grip over countless numbers of software development teams. Fortunately, there are a few ways to make the most of it. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Mar 2023
object-relational mapping (ORM)
Object-relational mapping (ORM) is a way to align programming code with database structures. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Mar 2023
The 3 daily Scrum questions
The 2020 Scrum Guide removed all references to the three daily Scrum questions, but does that mean you shouldn't ask them anymore? Continue Reading
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Blog Post
18 Mar 2023
Daily Scrum vs standup meetings: What's the difference?
Other than being an ableist term that discriminates against people who can't stand, there are many differences between a standup meeting and the daily Scrum. Here we look at the 10 most important ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
04 Mar 2023
Real world Java applications
Java runs on billions of devices, and Java applications of importance run on systems all over the world. Here are the top 10 applications of Java technology today, plus a look at what the future ... Continue Reading
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Blog Post
19 Dec 2022
Deliver software better, not faster
Managers and developers are pressured to complete projects on time and on-spec, but problems arise when speed outweighs quality. Here's why both sides are responsible to slow down and do things right. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Oct 2022
Product owner vs. product manager: What's the difference?
The job a product manager does for a company is quite different from the role of product owner on a Scrum team. Learn key differences between a product owner and product manager. Continue Reading
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Quiz
05 Oct 2022
Introduction to Scrum quiz
Want to prove your knowledge of Scrum? Tackle this 10-question Scrum introduction quiz and see how well you know the Scrum Masters, product owners and the Scrum Guide. Continue Reading
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Quiz
30 Sep 2022
10 tough Scrum Master quiz questions
Here's a tough 10 question Scrum Master quiz to test you on how well you know the responsibilities of this important Scrum role and accountability. Continue Reading
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Quiz
29 Sep 2022
10 tough Agile quiz questions for software developers
Ready to embrace Agile for your software development projects? Take this quiz to gauge your grasp of the basics of Agile, and the core values and principles of the Agile Manifesto. Continue Reading
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Infographic
22 Sep 2022
Agile infographic: 10 facts about the Agile Manifesto
How well do you know the Manifesto for Agile software development? Here are 10 interesting facts about the Agile Manifesto's principles and values. Continue Reading
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Feature
21 Sep 2022
Forward proxy vs. reverse proxy: What's the difference?
Forward and reverse proxies secure and isolate resources that reside on a private network, but they play different roles in modern enterprise architectures. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Sep 2022
Abstract pattern recognition skills aid developers and musicians
What do good programmers and musicians have in common? The ability to recognize and apply abstract patterns helps both roles keep their work in harmony. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Aug 2022
5 tips to make the transition from programmer to manager
Developers who want to shift gears from programmer to manager must embrace a different mindset and various skills. These five tips will guide your path. Continue Reading
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Blog Post
13 Jul 2022
Java comment types by example
There are three types of Java comments developers need to know. Here we show you how to use block, inline and JavaDoc comments with simple examples to make best practices clear. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jun 2022
8 tech jobs that don't require coding
Looking for an IT job that doesn't involve coding? These eight tech roles are important in any organization, with no programming required. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 May 2022
Agile versus Scrum: What's the difference?
What's the difference between Agile and Scrum? What are their similarities? Learn how to compare and contrast these two popular software development frameworks and methodologies. Continue Reading
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Opinion
18 May 2022
How to communicate effectively in the workplace
Don't bury the lead. Grab your audience's attention early. Be graceful when others disagree. These and other tips will help you communicate more effectively with your peers. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Feb 2022
Where requirements-based tests fit in software testing
Requirements-based testing has its upsides and downsides, and it's not right for every software project. But certain dev teams should still adopt the method. Learn which ones. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Feb 2022
Want to become a freelance developer? Weigh these 4 factors
Some people want independence even if it sacrifices the security of a salaried position. Consider these criteria to see if being a freelance developer is the right choice for you. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jan 2022
Why you must avoid ScrumBut at all costs
How do Scrum and ScrumBut compare? Darcy DeClute explains why ScrumBut is bad, and how you can avoid this Agile anti-pattern and stay true to Scrum's core principles. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Jan 2022
Ageism in software engineering is still a problem
Many developers want to program right up to retirement, but the reality of age discrimination unfairly hampers their career plans. Here's how to pitch experience as an asset. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Nov 2021
How to choose between REST vs. gRPC
Does your REST API and subsequent JSON or XML data create a bottleneck in your architecture? Perhaps it's time to consider gRPC instead of REST for your web services. Continue Reading
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Definition
13 Oct 2021
const
Const (constant) in programming is a keyword that defines a variable or pointer as unchangeable. Continue Reading
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Quiz
15 Jun 2021
REST web services and RESTful API quiz for developers
How well do you know RESTful APIs and their history? Test your knowledge of RESTful web services with this 10-question quiz on REST-based architectures. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 May 2021
How developers can help build a diversified workforce
Diversity comes in many forms. One way to diversify your workforce is to find new applications for the unique skills developers bring to your organization. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Apr 2021
Incorporate diversity and inclusion in technology design
DEI in technology is about more than creating a diverse workplace. We talked to a few DEI professionals about how teams build tools with diversity and inclusion in mind. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Mar 2021
Synchronous vs. asynchronous microservices communication patterns
What's the difference between synchronous, asynchronous and hybrid communication for microservices? Follow the examples below to establish how microservices communicate. Continue Reading
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Answer
26 Feb 2021
Should my company move its apps to microservices?
Microservices-oriented architecture is more flexible than monolithic structures, but microservices comes with costs companies need to weigh against the potential benefits. Continue Reading
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Infographic
24 Feb 2021
A better Gitflow diagram with branches, merges and color
Developers deserve a better Gitflow diagram, so we've given it to them. See the new and improved Gitflow diagram with support and bugfix branches and a bit of color. Continue Reading
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Answer
23 Dec 2020
What makes an effective microservices logging strategy?
System size and scale play a big role in microservices logging. Follow these best practices to develop a solid logging strategy within a microservices architecture. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Dec 2020
How is asynchronous microservices tracing best accomplished?
How can you trace a tricky workflow in an asynchronous microservices-oriented architecture? Two options include correlation IDs and distributed tracing tools. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Nov 2020
What are the most essential microservice design principles?
Don't hinder a microservices architecture because of a faulty design. Keep these five design principles in mind to build the proper components for your microservices architecture. Continue Reading
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Quiz
17 Nov 2020
10 microservices quiz questions to test your knowledge
Don't sweat the details with microservices. Take this 10-question quiz to boost your microservices knowledge and impress interviewers during a job hunt. Continue Reading