 All code to
be sent into production is created by two people working together at a
single computer. Pair programming increases software quality without
impacting time to deliver. It is counter intuitive, but 2 people
working at a single computer will add as much functionality as two
working separately except that it will be much higher in quality. With
increased quality comes big savings later in the project.
The
best way to pair program is to just sit side by side in front of the
monitor. Slide the key board and mouse back and forth. Both programmers
concentrate on the code being written.
Pair
programming is a social skill that takes time to learn. You are
striving for a cooperative way to work that includes give and take from
both partners regardless of corporate status. The best pair programmers
know when to say "let's try your idea first." Don't expect people to be
good at it from the start. It helps if you have someone on your team
with experience to show everyone what it should feel like. |
One
thing pair programming is not is mentoring. A teacher-stundent
relationship feels very different from two people working together as
equals even if one has significantly more experience. It takes time to
get used to pair programming so don't worry if it feels awkward at
first.  |
