It would be easy to think, as most people seem to think, that stress and the computer industry (and especially programming) were not bedfellows. The common image of long-haired young “geek” programmers churning out “software” from their teenage rooms is one that many still associate with mainstream programmers. Stereotype or not, this image is still commonly held, and the timed, overworked and stressed armies of programmers in the real world are all but forgotten in the tumult that is the result of the technological age.
Stress is rampant within the computer industry, perhaps even endemic. From assembly line manufacturers always looking to increase throughput to scrubbers whose time requirements weren’t in the original production schedule, the pressure on those working in the industry is at an all-time high and will only increase as margins. drop and higher efficiencies are required.
Even entering the industry can be stressful: Like private companies, many educational institutions are now usurping control of the written code on their campuses through “ownership” clauses that leave the creators of the groundbreaking code with nothing to show for their efforts. Having something to show in the interview is becoming increasingly difficult, not just for existing programmers, but for the “new wave” that just came out of colleges and universities with excellent grades, but nothing they “own” to prove.
Once the elusive job appears, things rarely get better. Our “immediate” society is the result of the computer age and the effortless sourcing of products and services over the Internet. How many programmers have faced the challenge of meeting impossible deadlines with the threat that the next job will go to cheaper overseas labor that can do it in half the time? This leads to longer work hours, less rest, burnout, mistakes and then the cycle starts all over again, is that really what we expected when we entered the industry? So how can you reduce the stress imposed on you by this relentless march of “progress”?
First of all, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound (or should it be a ton?) Of cure. By making sure your contracts are fair and considerate to both parties, you could eliminate a lot of stress later on. Here are five easy steps to help prevent stress on your next contract:
1. Be honest
If the deadline is too short, say so. If it seems short now, it will only seem much shorter later.
2. Be realistic
When evaluating the requirements of a job, make sure you have some leeway. Nine times out of ten, you will need it (or at least appreciate it!)
3. Be assured
Check your facts, figures, requirements and times. If you’ve made a mistake, you want to find out now, not later, when you will demand it from what you quoted.
4. Be flexible
It helps to have an ace up your sleeve. If things really do go wrong, where can you get additional help? Create contingency arrangements with others in your field and help each other when needed.
5. Care
Stress takes over unexpectedly. Do routine reviews against your plan and make sure it is still on track. If not, DO something about it and always, ALWAYS notify the customer.