Re: how to measure programmer's job performance

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From: Frank Carr (jfcarr_at_msn.com)
Date: 04/05/04 

Date: Mon, 5 Apr 2004 01:03:24 -0400

"Rogue Petunia" <speed_reader2000@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:%23nKeXPqGEHA.1240@TK2MSFTNGP10.phx.gbl...

> I'd like to hear your ideas on how to measure a programmer's job
> performance, particularly the output. Our company requires each employee
to
> set goals for the year. My manager has told me that my output must
increase
> and this must be one of my goals for this year. This is a vague, nebulous
> statement. How can one quantify this?

You really can't do it in these kinds of terms, at least not without it
being a subjective judgement. 'Lines of Code' used to be the indicator but
it is no longer a valid measure in todays client/server, web, and rapid
development world. For example, how many 'lines of code' do you count for
developing a graphic button for a website in PhotoShop or laying out a form
in VB?

Perhaps they don't think you've been as productive as other programmers in
your department. Do you think this is true? If so, you might want to talk to
your boss about getting more training or having a senior programmer mentor
you and tie this to the overall goal. If you don't think this is true, if
you are certain you are as productive as the other programmers, then my gut
feeling is that they're setting you up for a layoff and the reason they'll
give is that you didn't 'increase your output'. I've seen this tactic used
when management wanted to get rid of someone, particularly someone who
followed every little office rule to a 'T'. Maybe I'm cynical but a
statement like you mentioned sounds a lot like something Dilbert's pointy
haired boss would say. 

-- 
Frank Carr
jfcarr@msn.com
http://www15.brinkster.com/vbnotebook

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