ShopTalk
661: Working Vacations, Ripping Out JavaScript, and Non-US Cloud Service Options
· Summarized
Key takeaways
- Exploring alternatives to US-based cloud services is important, especially in light of international concerns.
- Returning to blogging can be challenging, but addressing the pressure of infrequency can help alleviate writer's block.
- Attending community-oriented events like folk festivals can provide inspiration and enhance personal creativity.
- Regular code maintenance, including removing unnecessary polyfills, is essential for efficient development.
- A strong design foundation is crucial before adding decorative elements to ensure overall quality.
Summary
Non-US Cloud Service Options
The episode opens with a discussion about alternatives to US-based cloud services, prompted by a listener's request. The host emphasizes the growing international frustration with US policies and suggests exploring European cloud service options. A resource called European Alternatives is pointed out, which lists various non-US services, including alternatives to popular US-based platforms like Gmail and GitHub.
Reflections on Blogging and Creativity
The conversation transitions to the challenges of blogging and staying consistent in content creation. The host shares personal experiences about the pressures of returning to blogging after a hiatus. A coworker's blog post resonates with him, discussing the psychology behind the desire for quality over quantity in writing, exploring how infrequent posting raises the stakes for content quality.
The Alaska Folk Festival Experience
The host recounts attending the Alaska Folk Festival, describing it as a delightful and reflective experience. The festival fosters a sense of community among musicians, and the host reflects on the social and musical connections made during the event, noting the uniqueness of a small town festival where everyone seems to know each other.
JavaScript Polyfills and Code Maintenance
A listener's question about the practicalities of using polyfills in JavaScript leads to a detailed exploration of code maintenance. The discussion revolves around whether developers actually remove outdated polyfills once support is gained across browsers. The host emphasizes that while it's good practice to clean up code, many developers find themselves keeping polyfills long after they're needed.
Design Philosophy: Gilding the Lily
The podcast closes with a discussion about a design principle popularly articulated as 'gilding the lily.' This concept encourages designers to focus on creating solid foundations for their projects before adding decorative elements. The idea is that if the underlying design is weak, no amount of embellishment can make it work. The conversation includes references to well-executed designs that exemplify this principle.
Sponsors
- European Alternatives · A resource mentioned for finding non-US based cloud services, providing various alternatives.
Show notes
Show Description
What are the non-US cloud services options, falling off the blogging train and trying to get back on, working on vacation, Chris recaps the Alaskan Folk Festival experience, how often do you go back and clean out JavaScript, and the idea of gilding just one lily on a new project.
Links
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