Pair Programming: collaboration and efficiency
In a development project, an effective method for rapidly integrating a new developer is peer programming. This approach involves two or more people working together (ensemble programming) on the same piece of code. Using this method, teams can share knowledge and solve problems collectively.
Pair Programming vs Ensemble Programming: understanding the subtleties
Trivially speaking, we need to distinguish between pair programming, where developers work in pairs, and ensemble programming, where at least three people work together. These two methods aim to develop in groups, thus encouraging the sharing of skills and the collective enhancement of competence in less mastered subjects. In a related topic, we've written an article on alternating work and training in development, and the resulting rise in skills.
The many advantages of developing together.
Peer programming offers several advantages. It enables developers to increase their technical and functional skills in complex areas. It's also an excellent way of integrating new members into an existing team, or facilitating the transfer of knowledge when talent leaves.
Quality and Pair Programming methodologies
Using methods such as strict Test-Driven Development (TDD ), where one person codes while the other tests, peer programming guarantees real-time feedback. This approach improves code quality by reducing the usual latency between production and code verification.
Peer programming, an approach based on code quality
The use of peer programming varies according to the context. Depending on the specific needs of the team or project, this method may or may not be preferred. Sometimes essential for integrating a new developer, it may be less relevant when team members can swap roles, or for less complex subjects. It's not necessarily a good idea to mobilize two or more resources on simple tasks when one person would have sufficed.
It is, however, an excellent tool when the task at hand is complex and the presence of two or more people is required to deliver the level of quality demanded. What's more, putting several developers to work on a single, difficult task often enables us to move ahead more quickly than if we were each developing on our own.
A versatile, context-sensitive tool
Peer programming is a powerful tool for accelerating the integration of developers into the team. It also improves code quality and encourages knowledge sharing. However, its optimum use depends on the specific context of each project and the needs of the team. You don't have to apply it everywhere without thinking. Adapting this method to suit each situation will help you make the most of it to ensure efficient, collaborative software development.
This article is based on a video made with César Mourot, co-founder of Code Insider.
