Dynamics of software development (2^nd Ed.)

Thought-provoking, controversial, and heavily updated, the book shows how to finish projects on time, and keep programmers happy.

• Shows how to lead or participate in a team that produces great software.
• Second edition of a successful book, updated to reflect the advent of Agile methodologies and Extreme Programming.
• Supports software engineers who are seeking more of a "human connection" to their work.

Anyone involved in software development will relate to the wisdom shared in the second edition of this popular book. The first edition was published by Microsoft Press in 1995, and this thoroughly updated second edition reflects the latest trends and changes that have impacted the world of application development in the past seven years. Even though the text has been revised, the goal of the author remains the same: to help all project stakeholders better understand their role in the dynamics of a software project, and ultimately contribute to an improved environment that fosters the production of a better software product. The book defines the goal of software design, presents aesthetic themes as they relate to design, and expresses the meaning of a project milestone. Also, the author explains the difference between scapegoating and teamwork, and points out the many "gotchas" that can derail a software project. Thousands of software professionals have benefited from the advice that Jim McCarthy has imparted throughout the years, and they will be eager to absorb his latest observations presented in this exciting new edition. Jim McCarthy has participated in the creation and shipping of numerous software products. He founded McCarthy Technologies in 1996, after product development and program management positions at Microsoft (where he led groups as large as 200, including managing development of Visual C++), the Whitewater Group, and Bell Laboratories. His hands-on laboratory is established for the study and teaching of high-performance teamwork, and in a controlled-simulation environment, challenges dozens of real-world, high-tech teams to produce and deliver a product. He is the author of Software for Your Head (Addison-Wesley, 2002).