Solving Problems Before Writing Code
Software Development Starts with the Problem – Not the Code
Good performance in software development isn’t measured by code, but by solution efficiency for a problem. That’s why the very first step must be: What problem needs to be solved? Without a clear problem definition, you’re building software for its own sake. Precisely because creating code has become easier than ever, skills beyond programming grow increasingly important.
Requirements Analysis: The Underestimated Foundation
The approach isn’t new. Yet with the pressure to deliver new versions seemingly every hour, fundamental aspects of software development appear forgotten. Even in the most agile and pragmatic projects, the first step must be requirements analysis. Here it’s crucial to identify both business and technical requirements:
- Business requirements ensure the right thing gets built – that the solution actually addresses the real problem.
- Technical requirements guarantee the solution works under the right conditions. Not every problem has the same demands for scaling, availability, or latency.
Technical Implementation: Pragmatism Over Architecture Dogma
Translating these requirements into a technical solution must happen based on actual needs. You can’t force an architecture concept onto a great solution from day one. Different parts of the problem may require different approaches:
- Some components must always be available – high redundancy is mandatory.
- Others need to handle fluctuating loads – scalability becomes key.
- Some are slow background processes where timing doesn’t matter.
- The data format determines whether you need a particular database or stream processing – not the other way around.
Modularity Is Key – Code Is Just One Component
A modular approach is crucial. Each module may follow different requirements. Preventing a chaotic patchwork quilt is the job of an experienced software architect. The actual code is just a small fraction – the choice of programming languages or algorithms can become secondary if the integration works well. Of course, code quality matters too, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Yet this single component – overvalued in dogmatic architectures – often becomes the sole focus. This is the great misconception.
Communication Keeps the Solution Alive
Close collaboration with stakeholders is critical. Communication is the foundation of good software – a shared language to prevent misunderstandings, and continuous alignment. It becomes clear: The final outcome can’t be fixed from the start. The solution evolves through insights and experience. That’s why it’s so important to avoid rigid approaches and embrace change. Today’s decisions must enable tomorrow’s adaptations – not block potential paths.