Skip to content

Code Quote by Joel Spolsky

“Writing code is not production, it's not always craftsmanship though it can be, it's design.” quote by Joel Spolsky
Download Open image
“Writing code is not production, it's not always craftsmanship though it can be, it's design.”

Joel Spolsky

About This Quote

Source Interview: Joel on Software, 2000

Writing code is not merely production; it can be craftsmanship and design, but not always.

In simple terms: Code can be functional, artistic, or both, but not necessarily.

Key Takeaway

Balance function and form in software.

Themes

software development craftsmanship design productivity

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • building a new app
  • refactoring legacy code
  • teaching programming
  • design reviews

Key Concepts

software engineering aesthetics process

Questions to Reflect On

  • When should you prioritize speed over elegance?
  • How does design impact maintainability?
A Different Perspective

Not all code needs to be elegant; sometimes speed matters more.

4.8 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Joel Spolsky

Explore all 43 Joel Spolsky quotes

More Code quotes

Browse all 1,561 Code quotes