A couple weeks ago I got this high priority project to build a Shiny New Thing. This SNT would modify an existing database table, so it seemed good form to get another pair of eyes on my program before I executed it. It took a couple days to make the SNT, after which I handed it off to my boss for a code review ( Read more... )

It has repeatedly come to my attention that people don't understand how and when to use pie charts. In general, pie charts are an inferior visualization; you almost always want a bar chart or a table or a list instead. There are very specific situations when pie charts are a reasonable choice, and there are some rules you should always follow ( Read more... )

I know, I know, I never write anymore. And when I do it's about projects, not my life. Well, this post is no different (except that I'm actually writing something ( Read more... )

From mtbg:


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Google Calendar apparently added one of those intent-predicting features. If you create an event titled "In ___" it will automatically insert "___" as the location for the event.

Of course, I found this out by penciling in the date of an In Flames concert, and going "whaaaa..?" when my location was filled in as "Flames".

They now have a Developer Network, including a Campaign Finance data API. Too cool!

Support an open debate format.

Californians: No on Prop 8. No matter which way you would vote on this matter, please make sure you do get out there and VOTE. Sometimes in a state like California you might feel that there's no need to show up to the presidential election, because you know which way your state is voting with or without you (and ( Read more... )

Today is a good day for capitalism.

• Short-sighted ridiculously expensive ill-thought bailout plan fails
  
• Citi buys Wachovia
  
• Bain and H&F are purchasing Lehman assets
  
• SpaceX does privately funded orbital flight (yesterday)

I'm sure they'll do plenty to disillusion me later, but, as with capitalism, one has to take both the ups and the downs.

Subject: Refinance your current loan

My thought: you can borrow current? Awesome!

One thing I really love about modern programs with any sort of calendar element: I get to choose the day the week starts. No longer do I have to put up with some of my calendars starting on Monday and some starting on Sunday, depending on what country developed them. No longer do I have to scan opposite ends of two different lines to find out ( Read more... )