Neil Merton

Keeping Developers Happy

I came across this article from the CSS Beauty website and thought I’d share it with other developers (and hopefully those managing developers). The main points that stand out to me are:

• Environment - if it’s neat and quiet then the developer will be able to concerntrate. This is too true!
• Equipment - top of the line computers and decent LCD monitors. I recently went from a laptop screen to a 20″ LCD monitor and it has made a world of difference.
• Books - allow developers to buy relevant books easily. Having good reference material is essential.
• Technology - encourage the exploration of new technologies. At work I’m always trying to see how the latest tricks might help improve the websites.
• Salary - keep it fair. Most developers will be happy as long as the above is adhered to - if the salary is above the going rate that’s an added bonus.

I urge you to read the article - and if you’re in full-time employment and feel brave - email it to your boss.

If you’re the boss; how many can you happily say you are implementing?

Little Nicky

I just stumbled across this joke on the Wittyfish website and thought I’d share it:

Little Nick’s been playing outside with the other kids for a while when he came into the house and asked his grandmother, “Grandma, what is that called when 2 people are sleeping in the same room and one is on top of the other?”

She was a little taken aback, but decided to tell him the truth. “It’s called sexual intercourse, darling.”

Little Nick just said, “Oh, OK” and went back outside to talk and play with the other kids.

A few minutes later he came back in and said angrily, “Grandma, it is NOT called sexual intercourse! It’s called Bunk Beds and Jimmy’s Mom wants to talk to you!”

I hope that brighten up your day a little.

First Public Wordpress Theme

I’m currently working on a Wordpress theme that will be released to the general public.

Here’s a screenshot of the progress being made:

The inspiration for the theme is Web 2.0 - please let me know what you think to the theme so far.

Update (13th Sept 2006): The theme is looking great in Firefox - just got to work on getting it right in Internet Explorer.

Industrial / Noise CDs For Sale

I’ve decided to get rid of my collection of industrial / noise cds from my DJing days. These include some very rare limited edition releases on the Ant-zen record label from artists like Converter, P·A·L and Salt along with other normal releases.

Feel free to browse my shop.

Crocodile Hunter Killed

I’m sure most people will have seen Steve Irwin on TV and know him as Australia’s mad crocodile hunter. It’s sad news when I read this morning that he was killed today in a freak accident involving a stringray off the coast of Australia.

Rest In Peace Steve.

Grand Theft Cola

Just found this tv commercial commissioned by Cokeâ„¢ done in the style of Grand Theft Auto. Find out more about the ad here. Superb!