Quality Code Short Tip #2 – Don’t Create What Isn’t Required
In Israel, this sign say “one-way street Update: dead-end” (you enter and exit the same side):
Now, if you see this sign, its meaning is clear. But if you see this sign:
You will start to think “What is this number? is it until 2011? from 2011? serial number of the sign?” etc.
So, why it is not as clear in development?
Many times, developers “prepare for the future” adding variables, db columns, tables etc. for “future use” - “I know we will need it in the future…”, but as in the sign, if you add it now you are adding “noise” to the code / db / etc. and may mislead your fellow developer (or you?)
so: Don’t Create What Isn’t Required Now!
Now, you are working on current tasks, create just what you need to accomplish the current task.