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RubyConf 2018 - The Developer's Toolkit: Everything We Use But Ruby by Noel Rappin As developers, our work is mediated through many tools besides languages. We use terminals, browsers, git, and the os. Not to mention editors. These are powerful tools that can be infinitely customized and extended. The tools can make common tasks easier or less error prone to perform. Or they can give you visibility into system behavior. But the options are bewildering and each customization has a cost. It’s time to make your environment work for you. This isn’t just a list of tips and tricks, but will also suggest how to evaluate whether a power tool or shortcut is worth your time.
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### Summary of "The Developer's Toolkit: Everything We Use But Ruby" In this presentation from RubyConf 2018, Noel Rappin explores the essential tools and workflows that developers employ beyond programming languages, specifically focusing on how to optimize these environments for better productivity. The talk is structured in two main parts: - **Understanding Tool Utility**: Rappin emphasizes that the role of tools is not just about saving effort but about reducing cognitive load and enhancing focus. He explains that simplifying workflows can help developers manage both simple and complex tasks effectively. - **Identifying Useful Tools**: He categorically describes three types of tools: - **Steno Typewriters**: Complex tools that require significant training but offer immense capability once mastered. - **Waffle Irons**: Simple, task-specific tools that are intuitive and user-friendly. - **Curb Cuts**: Tools that provide ease of use without demanding additional effort, enhancing a developer's workflow with minimal cognitive overhead. Additional key points discussed include: - **Importance of Customization**: Every developer has a unique workflow, and customization is crucial in creating an environment tailored to individual efficiency. - **Examples of Tools**: Rappin provides a range of recommendations including shell prompts with Z shell for improved display information, Git aliases to reduce typing, and text expansion tools for efficiency in coding. He further mentions using the 'jump' tool for quick navigation through directories and GUI applications like Fork for visual Git management. - **Overcoming Command-Line Barriers**: Rappin argues that while command-line tools are powerful, they can be complex and memory-intensive, necessitating flexible alternatives that simplify tasks without overwhelming the user. - **Integration with IDEs and Editors**: He discusses the robust ecosystems of text editors such as VS Code and Atom, highlighting their features that enhance productivity through better Git integration and useful plugins. At the conclusion, Rappin urges developers to review their regular tasks and identify areas where simplification and better tool choices could alleviate repetitive complexity. He emphasizes assessing both the visible and invisible costs of tools and processes, ultimately encouraging audience members to make more informed decisions about their development environments to allow for a more effective workflow. ### Key Takeaways: - Tools play a crucial role in reducing the complexity of the development process. - Effective tools can significantly lower cognitive load and simplify workflows. - Customization and careful evaluation of tools can lead to improved productivity. - Collaboration and the sharing of knowledge about useful tools can enhance overall development efficiency. He encourages ongoing discussion and questions beyond the event, aiming to connect and help improve workflows across the developer community.
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