The Dilemma of Rolling Your Own

In the world of software development, there is a recurring debate about whether it is wise or detrimental to “roll your own” solutions. Here we aim to delve into this divisive topic and shed light on the viewpoints surrounding it. We will explore scenarios where rolling your own may not be the best choice, and discuss instances where it might be justifiable. By examining the underlying reasons and weighing the pros and cons, we can navigate the complexities of software development with a balanced perspective.

The Temptation to Reinvent the Wheel

One of the primary grievances expressed by developers is the tendency to reinvent existing solutions unnecessarily. There are a handful of distinct types of developers who fall into this trap, and they are identifiable by on the Dunning-Kruger effect.

The Dunning-Kruger effect is a cognitive bias where individuals with low ability or knowledge in a specific area tend to overestimate their competence. Those with higher competence may underestimate themselves due to greater self-awareness. It highlights the tendency for people to have an inaccurate perception of their own abilities. Being aware of this bias can help foster more realistic self-assessment and a willingness to learn and grow.

New Developers and the Illusion of Omnipotence

Fresh-faced developers, brimming with enthusiasm and newly acquired skills, often fall into the trap of believing they can do everything better. Yet, as they gain experience, they discover the value of learning from existing solutions and embracing the knowledge of others.

Middle-of-the-Road Developers and the “Perfection” Trap

Another category of developers believes they have achieved a state of perfection and resist any notion of improvement or adoption of established solutions. Changing their mindset can be an arduous task, often requiring superhuman persuasion abilities.

Examples of Not-So-Successful DIY Endeavours

Certain aspects of software development, such as CSV parsing and data encryption, frequently entice developers to roll their own solutions. However, the complexities and intricacies involved in these areas often elude those attempting to create their own implementations. The author humorously highlights the pitfalls and challenges of these particular DIY endeavours.

The Pitfalls of DIY, Consider the Bigger Picture

While I do not discourage experimentation and learning, I do caution against utilising self-built solutions in production applications, if there is a more tried and tested solution available. The primary argument centers around the core purpose of a developer’s role: problem-solving efficiently. In most cases, developers are hired to provide solutions, not to cut code, nor spend excessive time reinventing the wheel.

The Cases Where Rolling Your Own May Be Justifiable

There are instances when creating your own solution is acceptable. These situations arise when no existing solutions meet the specific requirements or when extensibility is crucial. However, I want to emphasise the importance of critically evaluating the approach and considering if there might be a better way to address the problem at hand.

Seeking the Right Balance

So, go examine your motivations and approaches to problem-solving. While rolling your own can offer a sense of accomplishment, it is essential to weigh the benefits against the potential drawbacks. Striving for a balanced perspective that values efficiency, effectiveness, and learning from existing solutions can lead to better outcomes in the dynamic field of software development.

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By reflecting on the dilemmas of rolling your own and embracing the wisdom of leveraging existing solutions, developers can navigate their projects more effectively and achieve greater success in solving real-world problems.

At Whitefish Creative, we understand the complexities and debates that arise in the realm of software development. Our mission is to provide insights, and guidance to help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology. By embracing a balanced approach to rolling your own solutions, we strive to empower you to make informed decisions and achieve remarkable results in your software endeavours.

Even though rolling your own solutions can be tempting, it’s like trying to build a bicycle from scratch when there’s a perfectly good bike shop down the street. Sure, it might be an adventure, but sometimes it’s wiser to hop on that ready-made two-wheeler and enjoy the ride.

Happy coding, and may your solutions be as clever as your memes!