Computer science Quote by C.A.R. Hoare

““The most important property of a program is whether it accomplishes the intention of its user.””

C.A.R. Hoare

About This Quote

Source Book: The Art of Computer Programming, 1972

A program's worth is judged by how well it fulfills the user's intended purpose.

In simple terms: Program success = meeting user intent.

Key Takeaway

Focus on user goals.

Themes

software design usability intentionality

Mood

practical focused

Type

technical instructional

When to use this quote

software development
product management
UX design

Key Concepts

user-centered design functionality efficiency

Questions to Reflect On

How do you clarify user intent?
What metrics measure program success?

A Different Perspective

User intent may be ambiguous.

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