Page 202 of 433

The Latest and Greatest Technology in Programming

September 24, 2015 / Tom / 0 Comments

A couple of weeks ago, Basecamp (previously 37signals) wrote a great blog post part in which the topic of legacy applications as well as using latest and greatest technology were discussed.

In programming, there is often an obsession with using the latest and greatest technology. Programmers view the use of edge technology as its own badge of honor, and are quick to throw away legacy applications.

I’ve talked about this in previous posts before – it’s why I’m a fan of going deep rather than wide when it comes to working with certain languages and tools – but it doesn’t mean I don’t struggle with the desire to pick up something new every now and then.

Using PHP CodeSniffer For MAMP and WordPress

September 23, 2015 / Tom / 0 Comments

Every developer worth his or her weight will say writing quality code is key to making sure a project is maintainable over time.

What constitutes quality code may be subjective and this is not the post to debate that; however, if you’re working with PHP – especially alongside MAMP and WordPress – then I think using the PHP CodeSniffer is a tool we should all be using.

For those who’ve written both PHP applications and WordPress-specific applications, you know there are different standards used for writing code. Since this blog is primarily focused on the latter, then I’m obviously going to be focusing on that, but the steps provided aren’t altogether different for working strictly with PHP.

So here’s how you can setup PHP CodeSniffer, the rules for the WordPress Coding Standards, and how to have them run alongside MAMP.

On Becoming a Better Writer

September 22, 2015 / Tom / 0 Comments

I try to keep the focus of this blog limited to writing about code, WordPress, software, and business.

Every now and then I’ll come across a resource I find so useful, I end up reusing or re-reading several times to try to figure out how to incorporate it into my day-to-day work. Usually, this has to do with some type of app of programming technique (and this likely similar to something you do, too).

In this case, I’m talking about writing.

Tools For Quality WordPress Development

September 21, 2015 / Tom

It’s been quite a while since I’ve written anything for Tuts+ Code (which was previous Wptuts+ – the Envato property for all things related to WordPress development), so I’ve slowly started getting back into the habit as time allows.

With my most recent post, I’m trying to share some tools I believe lead to quality WordPress development.

Of course, if you’re an experienced WordPress developer, this likely isn’t for you; however, if you’re just getting into the field and are looking for some things to add to your toolbox, then here’s a list of things I recommend for those starting out.

WordPress Developers and WP Migrate DB Pro

September 18, 2015 / Tom / 0 Comments

I’ve mentioned WP Migrate DB in previous posts, but it’s been at least two years since I’ve last written about it.

In two years, software can change a lot and WP Migrate DB is no different. I’m still a fan, I still recommend it to people, and I still think that it’s an extremely valuable plugin for any WordPress developer (or even someone who works with WordPress site migrations) to have available.

WP Migrate DB

The point, though, is not for me to sit here and promote a plugin or to try to push something on you. I’ve said what I need to say in terms of who needs it.

But for those who are skeptical or those who are just getting started in WordPress development, it still raises a question as to why anyone needs it.

And that requires an understanding of why each person should have various environments setup for their project development. If you’re an seasoned developer, this post isn’t for you.

But if you’re getting started with WordPress development or looking to refine your workflow, then follow along. I’ll make this quick.

Tom McFarlin