written by owen

It is important to understand why some programmers write code differently from other programmers and the reasoning behind each block or section of code. This article is not directed at any particular language or style of programming, it is a discussion of the differences computer code which is written to solve various problems. The patterns may overlap but nothing is ever defined specifically and are to be considered as a general overview.

Error Reduction

At some point code may be written in order to reduce errors that may arise at a late point in time. In a computer program a error can arise at any point in anytime and for any random reason. In order to reduce the effects of such an occurrence some parts of a program might be written in order to reduce the effect of such an error.

Read Ability

The code is written so that it is easy to read by anybody that may happen to decide to read it at some point in the future. Sometimes also referred to as clean code but clean code is also relative to the experience of the reader.

Efficiency

The code is written so that it can make the best use of computer resources. This does not necessarily mean it is fast, easy to read or reduces possible errors.

Speed

Falls under 2 forms speed of execution and speed of development. Speed of execution involves writing the program so that it can run as fast as possible in the expected operating environment. Speed of development means it is written so the application can evolve or change at a high rate.

Simplicity

The code is written so that it is simple. Simplicity is relative but usually it spreads rapidly. Simple to read, update, integrate, extend etc.

Stability

The code is written so that it does not crash easily either by internal or external forces. Usually maximizing scalability and robustness.

Reusability

The code is written so that it can not only be used to solve the current problem but many future problems as well.

Friendliness

Code usually falls into 2 forms programmer friendly and user friendly. The first form is code written in order to make it easier to re-write or update. While the second form is directed towards code written in order to improve user interface efficiency. Code can also be language friendly, hardware friendly, etc.

Dependency

Often times code is written so that it is very dependent or very independent for whatever reason.

Conclusion

The patterns outlined are usually not mutually exclusive and it is often not possible to maintain a constant pattern through out an application. As to whether a pattern is more advantageous than another is dependent on several variables.

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