Remote programming is a popular and flexible way of working as a developer, but it also comes with some challenges and risks. How can you avoid common pitfalls of remote programming and ensure that you deliver quality code, communicate effectively, and stay motivated and productive? Here are some tips and best practices to help you succeed as a remote programmer.
One of the first things you should do as a remote programmer is to set clear expectations with your clients, managers, and teammates. This includes defining the scope, timeline, and deliverables of your projects, as well as the communication channels, tools, and protocols you will use. By setting clear expectations, you can avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and missed deadlines, and also establish trust and accountability.
I would like to add few points: - Know your user, right! Here the term 'user' is not necessary has to be the end users. But someone who represents the end users or owns the product, task or the project! - Discuss more before you start. - Set the boundary within the possible minimal boundary. Plan iteration over big deliveries.
Version control is a vital skill for any programmer, but especially for remote ones. Version control allows you to track, manage, and collaborate on changes to your code, as well as to backup, restore, and deploy your code. You should use a reliable version control system, such as Git, and follow consistent naming conventions, branching strategies, and commit messages. You should also use code reviews, pull requests, and merge conflicts to ensure the quality and consistency of your code.
I want to add some key characteristics as a vcs user: - create pull request as early as possible. if not ready mark it draft asap and keep contributing. - visit your own draft pull requests as frequently as possible. Some Does and Dont: Dont: - push commit to someone else pull request - dont update someone's else branch without asking. - respect the ownership of pull request author. Does: - if you have small suggestions, add reviews or comments - be humble - if you have a big suggestion and feel it necessary to suggest then create a new pull request from the original pull request and ask the owner to review your suggestions.
If you work in a hybrid scenario, I can't stress this enough: use version control to sync your home box with your work box, or things are going to get very messy very quickly. And on your own personal branch, commit messages like 'Syncing for home' are perfectly acceptable. Otherwise you are going to learn the intricacies of git merge whether you're ready or not.
Communication is key for remote programming, as you need to stay in touch with your clients, managers, and teammates, and share your progress, feedback, and issues. You should communicate regularly, using a mix of synchronous and asynchronous methods, such as video calls, chat messages, emails, and status updates. You should also use clear and concise language, avoid jargon and slang, and respect the time zones and preferences of your collaborators.
Try to make a routine of logging work and make short summaries of what are you doing even if are not required in your framework. This is a good proactive way to let people in track of what are you doing. It’s normal that your managers wants to know what are you doing. By many different reasons it will happen no matter if you’re remote or on-site, if it has a dynamic workday or not. Take it as an advantage.
Time management is another essential skill for remote programming, as you need to balance your workload, deadlines, and personal life. You should create a realistic and flexible schedule, and stick to it as much as possible. You should also prioritize your tasks, set SMART goals, and track your time and productivity. You should also avoid distractions, such as social media, notifications, and emails, and take regular breaks to refresh your mind and body.
I'm a solo dev for my organization, but I've found that even just a simple to-do checklist on my phone keeps me focused and prevents me from getting overwhelmed with the never ending lists of tasks and priorities.
Remote programming offers you the opportunity to learn new skills and technologies, as you can access a variety of online resources, courses, and communities. You should take advantage of this opportunity, and keep your skills updated and relevant. You should also seek feedback, mentorship, and advice from other programmers, and join online forums, groups, and events to network and share your knowledge and experience.
Finally, remote programming should be fun and rewarding, as you can enjoy the freedom, flexibility, and creativity of working from anywhere. You should find ways to make your work enjoyable and meaningful, such as choosing projects that interest you, adding some personal touches to your code, and celebrating your achievements. You should also maintain a healthy work-life balance, and pursue your hobbies, passions, and interests outside of work.