Software Craftsmanship

Last night I signed the "Manifesto for Software Craftsmanship". I hesitate to sign such things because they often come to nothing, but I think this one is important.

The problem with this kind of thing is that people will sign it lightly. It has no built-in accountability, and those who have shown no desire in their career for becoming truly good at what they do can sign it as if it matters to them, though it does not.

But it matters to me. Not the manifesto itself so much (manifestos are only as valuable as the strength of their ideas and the willingness of those who sign to live up to them) but the idea. Perhaps the manifesto will encourage some to be better at what they do. This is why we should push it. But the reality is that most of those who are truly concerned with being great are going to be great regardless of any manifesto. But here is to hoping.