Hacker News new | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submit login

It's a good read, but it's nearly 15 years old and there may not be enough context to where Yourdon was coming from. Almost as much time has passed since this essay was written as there was in Yourdon' career up to Death March. Much has happened since then. No one uses heavyweight methodologies, like UML. Processes are light and agile. Languages like Java, Python, and Ruby are way better, as are the associated tools. I consider the 1-week release cycle the biggest contributor to productivity.

It's ancient history. Lessons have been learned.




Maybe at the leading edge, but I joined a death-march project in 2004, then left another one in 2008.

And I believe that many young programmers are still being thrown onto late projects.

I'd really love to believe that UML is dead, but can it really be true? cite?




Consider applying for YC's Spring batch! Applications are open till Feb 11.

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: