Re: [udf-dlm-develop] Bug tolerance [LONG, off-topic]

[Ed S. <es...@la...>]

Harald,

  >I don't think that the problem is in UDF_EOF.

I still have a feeling that it might be, but need to spend some
time investigating to make sure.  Since I may not have time
today, I mentioned some possibilities in my last note, in case
anyone else feels like tracking down the problem.

Stepping back up in your note, though...

  >You are able to fix this in the IDL program if you check the etime of the 
  >present record against your end_time, and if you have reached the 
udf_eof(fh)

Are you suggesting that as a temporary hack, or a permanent measure?
It goes pretty much 100% against what I've tried to do in UDF-DLM,
which is to eliminate the need for unwieldy code.

Furthermore, I'd like to get on my soapbox yet again.  This is getting
to be an unpleasant habit...

  [Harald, this flame is not directed at you.  If anything, it's directed
   towards those of us in the industry who have allowed the state of the
   art to get so bad]

*** If something doesn't work as expected, GRIPE AT ME!!! ***

Come on, I can take it.  Heck, I'm obnoxious and insufferable, why
not take the chance to put me down a notch?

More importantly, though: I'm a professional.  I take great pride
in my work.  My code is ultimately the only measure of my worth.

When I hear that something isn't working as it should be -- especially
something as critical as multi-file reads -- it immediately gets my
attention, and gets placed _very high_ on my priority list (alas,
right now my priority list is kind of overloaded).

However, the worst thing I can hear is someone saying "I know
about that, here's a way to work around it".  That implies I'm
not even expected to produce acceptable-quality software.  Ouch.

Or perhaps you've assumed that I know about the problem?  Remember,
I'm working on MENA only -- and I'm only budgeted 12%.  Worse, most 
of the time, I can't even get data files to _install_ for other 
instruments (don't get me started about UDF), so my testing and 
experience is woefully limited.  

Maybe you think you can deal with some problems?  If so, think about
the next gal or guy:  isn't it better to report (or fix) a bug, than
to have every end user encounter it, track it down, and work around it?

Please, don't accept mediocrity.  Not from me, not from anyone.
Microsoft has built an empire by shipping crap (glitzy crap, though)
and convincing the customer that they're to blame for its failings.
Come on, let's fight that attitude.

Look, if you encounter a problem, it is NOT your fault, it's *MINE*!
MINE MINE MINE, ALL MINE!  I want to hear about it.  Beat me over the
head with it, if necessary.  Whip me, hurt me (whoops, sorry, I get
carried away sometimes.  Where's that backspace key?)

I may not have time to work on it (e.g., the "matrix" code).  Or
maybe I don't have the knowledge (multi-file reads?) or ability.
But I'm not (yet) too old to learn new tricks, and spare time
shows up occasionally.

The Bottom Line: DEMAND EXCELLENCE!  Be LOUD and IRRITATING about it!

I may not deliver, but come on, give me a chance to try.  Besides,
if you don't demand perfection, you'll certainly end up with less.

Ed the Obnoxious, over and out.