(Hands-on) Systems and Software Developer
Contents
Executive Summary
Core Values
Mission Statement
Techy Babbel
Work Experience
Art and Design (drives creativity)
Training
Summary
Executive Summary
I have been a software developer and working in software engineering since 1997. My roles have varied between pure software development and whole systems design including implementation as a hands-on project manager/team leader. A large part of my working experience has been following a set of core values (see below). My experience includes software through the full life cycle.
Due to having worked on a range of projects and with different electronic and software technologies for different industries, this basically gives me a good experience base. It also implies that learning different technologies is normal in my work. Being required to research and learn on the job is a normal part of working in technology. This also applies to requirements gathering as this is a form of research and the design is the application of technology to the requirements. I enjoy learning and working in this science. Sometimes using longer-term proven technology can also be a benefit. Learning on the job is normal in technology as technology evolves rapidly and I have to evolve with it. Creativity is important in technology as well as this allows for better problem solving and ideas for how to apply and incorporate technology in products and services. Team working can help in creating and also in combining and sharing experience from previous jobs.
Alongside various training and other activities, I have also read Plato’s Timaeus translated to English by Donald J Zeyl. It is interesting how close to the truth you can get just through rational thought. So philosophy is important as it teaches that individuals can get half the work done just by applying thought processes and thinking work through. Also, that creativity and logic can be applied together.
I am used to working in multi-cultural companies where equality and diversity is naturally applied and valued.
Core Values
- An Interest in Science and Technology
- Rational Thought
- Planning
- Research and Learning
- Creativity
- Teamwork
- Inclusive Attitude
Mission Statement
To deliver working and usable software or systems that satisfy end customers. Work with customers to understand requirements and to improve the customer experience of the software and systems. Utilize modular approaches and understand the longevity of components in the system and allow for replacement technology whilst support existing system components were appropriate. Design for manufacture and in a cost-effective way, including understanding and working with manufacturers.
Rational thought and creativity can clash so I am strong in my mind when working and focusing on objectives applying rational thought and creative thinking in a constructive way. This can be achieved by compartmentalising both skillsets in my mind.
A previous manager once explained ideation as an important step when looking at creating new products. This is where you can explorer creative thinking, even into the bizarre and absurd, during an ideation session with a view to provoking and drawing out ideas. These ideas can be rationalised to something usable. Sometimes thought of as a think-tank, dipping into a pool of ideas.
Techy Babbel
My favourite programming language is C# which is pronounced C ‘sharp’. Having programmed in both Visual Basic (VB) and C# for .NET WinForms over a number of years. I think I prefer C# because of its roots in ANSI C. I programmed for microcontrollers over about 9 years using ANSI C. The use of protocols for communications between hardware devices and microcontrollers or just between machines is no stranger to me. You can see a small snippet of code for microcontrollers here.
I also like to program in PHP for web APIs, and in python (see my LED project). I have done my own scripting in Blender with python and assisted another developer on Github with their add-on. I have been looking at Xamarin for providing the interface for mobile and PC platforms, for which there is a Visual Studio Android simulator that is effective. The Windows 10 apps can use Xamarin with universal windows platform (UWP).
I did work at a design agency for a while working with a team on new product designs in consumer electronics. The importance of using programmable microchips is to keep the cost down but still be able to change the behaviour of the electronic device through programmable flash. Raspberry Pi’s can be useful too especially as a cheap way to deliver computing power and control specifically with video or other flexible applications where the electronics become an extension to the Pi. This is not always the most cost-effective solution for all consumer electronics. Some products now have custom ASIC chip designed but microcontrollers are still used and good for production. I’ve used Arizona Microchip’s peripheral interface controller (PIC) range for a number of years. I have a code snippet of something I wrote for a PIC in C.
I did implement a number of known software patterns in the C# application I wrote. There is guidance for software patterns that can be implemented, there are examples on oodesign.com. When working on software design I do go back to references for the design patterns. I follow coding guidelines for C# as per Microsoft’s recommended standards or the standards set out by the organisation I work for.
Work Experience
C# Software Developer
I wanted to have an opportunity to produce an application using C#. The organisational structure of the business was fairly flat so there was not a concept of senior or junior developers, all the developers were effectively senior. However, they supported new graduate scientists for complex R&D alongside doctors of science.
Senior Systems Developer (Tensator Ltd)
I wanted to utilize skills in electronic and software development in an organisation where this would have a high impact. The main role was a modernization of an existing system but also, development of new systems. My team included a variety of different people from different departments but also external contracted companies.
Design Engineer (ML Electronics Ltd)
I was working for another company ran by the same people working on web design and really took an interest in the electronics side of their businesses. So I switched to do C programming on microcontrollers and got more involved in electronics and systems development.
Art and Design (drives creativity)
I have spent a number of years in my own spare time learning how to use Blender for 3D graphics including gaming objects. I made my own site logo, which is quite simple and the logo for the GDPR compliance statement on this site.
I am exploring art and design and love to explore new ideas and creativity over a nice cup of coffee, obviously! Being English I also like my tea as well :).
I have worked on numerous projects over my career and have worked with designers both in electronics and product design. During my career, I have had the great opportunity to go abroad and explorer the world whilst working.
I am using WordPress for this website as it is quick and easy to set up but also there is such a wide variety of plugins at my fingertips. I keep to the dark backgrounds as much as possible with pages on the site, although it’s evolving over time. The reason is that after years of coding I have found the dark background with lighter text easier on the eyes.
I am looking to expand my site to include different projects and different hobbies just for fun!
Training
Recent
(2021) TQUK Level 2 in Safeguarding, Prevent, and British Values (RQF)
I have completed the course, it is not for the faint-hearted but is useful for awareness when working professionally. Or, just for general awareness as issues can occur anywhere at any time, for anyone.
(2021) TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Team Leading (RQF)
Computing and Technology
I have studied a number of course through the Open University but have not got a full degree. (The price went up steeply.) Courses include:
M364 – Fundamentals of interaction design
M359 – Relational databases: theory and practice
M257 – Putting Java to work
M255 – Object-oriented programming with Java
T175 – Networked living: exploring information and communication technologies
Microchip Technology, Inc. Master’s Programme Certificate (Arizona, USA)
This is a certificate for attending classes by Microchip Technology, Inc in Arizona, USA. It is the manufacture of electronic components in the United States of America. It confirms that I have been involved in embedded micro-controller programming and attended training classes. This is supplementary training for work I was already doing that spanned over a 9 year period.
BTEC National Diploma in Computer Studies
This course is equivalent to A-levels.
City & Guilds Microcomputer System Installation and Maintenance 2
This is a qualification for the building and installation of computer components. Basically building a workstation but considering anti-static etc…
Other Training and Interests
UK Driving License
Shotokan Karate 1st Dan (Black Belt)
The Firewalk 2006 with Tony Robbins – Unleash the Power Within (UPW)
At the ExCel London Docklands
This covers self-motivation and a lot of psychology and is a very intensive but constructive course. It is worth taking a team to this, do split up and be around other people during the course as this is important too. Yes, this does involve walking over hot coals literal and it’s great fun! I would recommend looking at spring or summer to do this as the ground can be very cold when waiting.
Swimming Pool Rescue and Water Safety (Grade 2)