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What would happen if you allowed a bug to slip through a…

“What would happen if you allowed a bug to slip through a module, and it cost your company $10,000? The nonprofessional would shrug his shoulders, say “stuff happens,” and start writing the next module. The professional would write the company a check for $10,000!” quote by Robert C. Martin
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““What would happen if you allowed a bug to slip through a module, and it cost your company $10,000? The nonprofessional would shrug his shoulders, say “stuff happens,” and start writing the next module. The professional would write the company a check for $10,000!””

Robert C. Martin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Professionals take responsibility for costly mistakes; amateurs ignore them.

In simple terms: Responsibility distinguishes pros from amateurs.

Key Takeaway

Own your errors.

Themes

professionalism accountability quality software ethics

Mood

technical practical inspirational

Type

engineering business

When to use this quote

  • code reviews
  • post‑mortems
  • quality assurance
  • budget planning
  • client communication

Key Concepts

software engineering risk management business ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can teams encourage accountability?
  • What systems catch errors early?
A Different Perspective

Blame culture can hinder learning.

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