In the early stages of a tech startup, the software system acts as the essential building block. To ensure that your software system is robust and can be iterated quickly in low risk and low cost, one factor rises above all - code readability.
Readability should take precedence over functionality. If a program is difficult to run but easy to read, it can be made operational relatively quickly. Conversely, if a program can run but is not easily readable, it will require countless efforts from your team to iterate, if such iteration is even possible. Software is called "soft" because it needs to evolve alongside your business, especially during its early, high-speed changing stages. Small pivots and major changes to the software system are common occurrences during this time. Code readability becomes the first-tier element determining future development costs, and its impact ripples across your finances, your team's well-being, and your business's overall success.
It is disheartening to see teams, individuals, and even senior developers with years of coding experience, neglecting code readability by default. They often minimize efforts towards code readability maintenance, such as writing fewer comments and documentation to save time, not embracing test-driven development (TDD) for time-saving purposes, or solely focusing on the functional aspects during code review. Eventually, they find it increasingly challenging to add new features or fix bugs in their software. Progress grinds to a halt, and even small changes risk breaking multiple existing features or unleashing a flurry of new bugs. Service disruptions become more frequent, stalling the business's growth. Desperate for a solution, they embark on a new system, often labeled "architecture version 2." This cycle of technical debt and costly reinvention begins, but sadly, many teams never live to see "architecture version 2." The invisible killer in these situations is often attributed to poor code readability.
How can we avoid such a debacle? The game rule is simple: prioritize good code readability principles from day one and maintain them consistently. Various methods and tools are available to achieve this goal, including modern IDEs, TDD, Agile methodologies, and code review processes. Furthermore, there are excellent books like Uncle Bob's trilogy - "Clean Code," "Clean Coder," and "Clean Architecture" - that offer valuable insights into maintaining good code readability.
Ultimately, the most critical factor in maintaining good code readability is you - the startup owner. Implement the right methods and tools within your team, allowing sufficient time for clean coding practices. Communicate the principle of prioritizing code readability to your team, and trust them to execute it effectively. By doing so, you pave the way for successful software development and the long-term sustainability of your business.
