On Being an Indie & Making Great Software

Friday just as I was packing up to leave the great state of NJ I noticed this post from Scott. I thought perfect, that is the kind of developer I want to be. The person that thinks always about experience. Not just of my users (but of course, them first) but also about my future self trying to read my code. Did I hack, did I do something that was quick and easy instead of spending the time to make it right? And not just with my games but also with the books too. Did I spend the time to make the section or chapter right, I always want to do that. I never want to settle for less than my best.

Then on the plane while not allowed to use 'personal electronic devices' I stumbled onto page 17 of this. 'The Business of Magic', apparently United is trying to teach their folks that building the plane ride into a positive experience will lead to more committed customers. I doubt they have much chance with the declining nature of air travel its time for a revolution there. But that is another post...

United appears to be turning to Disney to help them. Apart from some of the tactics they use to milk nostalgia for every last $ Disney is a great company. Going to DisneyWorld/Land is a magical experience for a 3 year old. It's like walking into a fairy tail. And its not just the princesses and other characters everyone there is all about the experience. All of the staff want to make your day magical, as a Dad it's just fantastic. From start to finish the whole thing is just immersive. That is why Disney does well, and I think a big part of why Apple does well.

Apple does not settle for iPhone light, that is kinda cool and does some fun stuff. They only settle for fantastic. They don't settle for iPhoto that works, they make iPhoto that delights. That is the kind of software I want to build. The kind that people show to their friends and say 'wow this is cool, look at this!'. I'm working on it, and working and working.