The Underground Application Development Superheroes

Author: Richie Palma

The underground I’m referring to is the group of developers that is so good at what they do but also so humble that you would never know it until you dive into their code. These guys have shaped the world we live in today but rarely focus anytime on chasing credit or boasting about their accomplishments. They are typically self employed or long time consultants dedicated to a select few customers or a small development firm. They love the freedom to create and the ability to drive change in organizations.

They adapt to changing landscapes, consistently bringing value to the people and objectives they serve. They are constantly growing their internal database of quick fixes to complex problems that you rarely find in full time departmental developers. They’re honest, hardworking, passionate professionals that program faster than you can type an email. They sit back in the shadows until someone believes in them and delivers their talents to the world.

These people are the elite, the special forces of the development world. The terrain does not affect them nor does the mission. They are mentally tough, highly dedicated, tactical individuals.

I’m sure you already know or will eventually come to the understanding that I am a sales person. This post might even rub development professionals the wrong way. The reality is that these people do exist and they do change the status quo, in many cases the world. People like me are just the vehicle by which they’re introduced.

Many people say “Richie, why wouldn’t we just hire a full time developer for half the price?”. Answer, you don’t find this kind of talent in the job pool. These superheroes reside in the IT underground.

Richie Palma

Arbor Solutions Inc.

Grand Rapids, MI