Comment Front end vs Back end (Score 1) 284
A common dichotomy I see is a between front-end and back-end folks. Some engineers are really interested in how systems work, others think much more about the ways people use systems.
For example, ask yourself what reactions you have when you use an ATM cash machine.
If using an ATM makes you think about what kind of database banks use, or how partner banks can reliably take cash out of your account, or how the system keeps the pin secure and prevents spoofing, etc, - if your focus is on those kinds of technical details, you may find back-end work more rewarding.
If, on the other hand, your first response to an ATM machine is to get annoyed and think "why can't the people who designed this stupid system make it remember what language I speak!" That reaction suggests you may be more of a front-end thinker. Focusing on the UI side of the business could be more fulfilling.
Of course, its good to know a bit about all aspects when working in a team, but in my career I've found that focusing on just one end has been helpful. It gives me a specialty and skill that is appreciated. I get to do more of what I love. And when the system crashes I can say "blame the back end guys!"
For example, ask yourself what reactions you have when you use an ATM cash machine.
If using an ATM makes you think about what kind of database banks use, or how partner banks can reliably take cash out of your account, or how the system keeps the pin secure and prevents spoofing, etc, - if your focus is on those kinds of technical details, you may find back-end work more rewarding.
If, on the other hand, your first response to an ATM machine is to get annoyed and think "why can't the people who designed this stupid system make it remember what language I speak!" That reaction suggests you may be more of a front-end thinker. Focusing on the UI side of the business could be more fulfilling.
Of course, its good to know a bit about all aspects when working in a team, but in my career I've found that focusing on just one end has been helpful. It gives me a specialty and skill that is appreciated. I get to do more of what I love. And when the system crashes I can say "blame the back end guys!"
