Design-principles

Design

Principles

For Developers

• Leverage their favorite tools. We want to integrate and place nice with others, not replace them.
• Respect their computers. Use a reasonable amount of resources. Cleanup unused resources. Install and uninstall easily.
• Respect their privacy. No spyware, etc.
• Provide options for different preferences. Examples: what library version, what color, etc.

Maximize Effectiveness not Features

• The best software is not the one with the most features.
• Provide a designed experience.
• Avoid the turing tarpit.
• Avoid indecision. Make correct decisions. Do not reply on options as a crutch. Providing an option is to accommodate varying preferences, not differences in philosophy or design.

User Interface

Audience

• Professional programmers and new programmers.
• But, not the most opinionated, most intense power users. We want them comfortable, but don't expect to replace their favorite text editor.
• IDE not text editor.

Goals

• Make the interface look clean and clear.
• Make it easy for developers to find what they want.
• Clear the work area as much as possible. Focus on the code, not at all the extras.