5 Resources to make you a better Developer + Designer.

To understand what it means to be a better Developer + Designer we have to understand holistically what it means. What does a Developer do? What are we responsible for? What does a designer do? Who are we designing for?

A developer is not only someone who builds programs, they are also someone who shapes the future of the world. So many developers have changed our world drastically, in a single lifetime. So what are we responsible for? Everything. Software touches the lives of almost every person on the planet, every second of every day. From alarm clocks to satellites, we all use it. So the people who create technology are responsible for... EVERYTHING.

So, what does a designer do? To put it simply, a designer creates solutions for problems that exist in the world. A good designer knows who they are designing for, and how their product will affect the world. So who do we design for? Everyone. Designs should be inclusive, adaptive, accessible, and as simple to understand as they possibly can be. We are designing for our fellow humans to improve their lives and solve their problems.

So, In Short. We design for EVERYONE, and we are responsible for EVERYTHING. That's A LOT of pressure.

Here are some resources that can help you become a better developer, designer, and overall human.

1. Net Ninja

Net Ninja, also known as Shaun Pelling, is a well-known and respected developer in the industry. He is known for his comprehensive and easy-to-follow programming tutorials on YouTube, covering a wide range of topics such as web development, mobile app development, and game development. With over 1 million subscribers, his channel has become a go-to resource for many aspiring developers looking to expand their skill set.

Net Ninja's tutorials are not only informative but also engaging, making them accessible to people of all levels. His teaching style is clear and concise, with an emphasis on practical examples that allow viewers to follow along and build their own projects. Whether you are a beginner just starting out, or an experienced developer looking to sharpen your skills, Net Ninja's tutorials have something for everyone.

TLDR;

Net Ninja provides fun easy-to-follow videos, has a fun accent and will teach you more than you ever thought you wanted to know. He is engaging and exciting and explains things very simply so his videos are accessible to most if not all programmers.

2. Prof3ssor St3v3

Steve Griffith, also known as Prof3ssor St3v3, is a highly experienced and respected web design and development expert. With over two decades of experience in the field, dating back to 1997, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his audience.

He currently works as the Coordinator for the Mobile Application Design & Development Program at Algonquin College in Ottawa, Canada, where he imparts his knowledge and experience to students in the field.

His YouTube channel is a valuable resource for those looking to learn and improve their skills in web design and development. The channel is packed with tutorials and instructions on a wide range of topics, with a particular focus on JavaScript. The videos are well-produced, easy to understand, and packed with helpful tips and tricks.

TLDR;

Steve's ability to create a simple explanation for an otherwise wildly complicated idea is immense. His tutorials are easy to follow and he has decades of teaching experience.

3. Your Undivided Attention

Tristan Harris' podcast, "Your Undivided Attention," is a deep dive into the ways in which technology is shaping our society and our individual lives.

Tristan, a former Google design ethicist, uses his expertise in technology ethics to explore the complex and often hidden ways in which technology is impacting our attention, our relationships, and our well-being.

The podcast is designed to be thought-provoking and illuminating, and Harris invites a diverse range of guests, including experts in the fields of technology, psychology, and sociology, to share their perspectives and insights. Episodes cover a wide range of topics, including the effects of social media on mental health, the ethics of AI, and the impact of technology on democracy.

TLDR;

You should hear what Tristan has to say, he is passionate knows what he is talking about, and offers incredible insight. It's our responsibility to create things that are good in every way.

4. Unlocking Us

"Unlocking Us" is a must-listen podcast hosted by Brené Brown, a renowned researcher, author, and speaker. The show delves into a wide range of topics related to the human experience and how we can live a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Brené is known for her work on vulnerability, courage, empathy, and shame, and these themes are central to the podcast.

Each episode features Brené in conversation with a guest, who may be an author, speaker, or thought leader in their own right. The conversations are intimate, candid and relatable, with Brené and her guests sharing personal stories and insights. The guests come from different backgrounds and have different perspectives which make the podcast more interesting and relatable.

One of the things that makes "Unlocking Us" so compelling is its focus on the practical application of Brené's research. She provides listeners with concrete tools and strategies they can use to navigate their own lives and relationships more authentically. Her warmth, authenticity, and vulnerability make it easy for listeners to relate to her and her guests.

TLDR;

Brené Brown is a social scientist. She understands humans. We create products for humans to make their lives easier and solve their problems. Let the experts show you what you don't know.

5.Fireship

Fireship is a YouTube channel that focuses on all things related to web development. The channel is run by a guy named Jeff Delaney who has a passion for sharing his knowledge with others. He covers a wide range of topics such as JavaScript, Angular, Firebase, and more. What sets Fireship apart from other tech channels is Jeff is funny, well-paced, and smart.

The channel is perfect for aspiring web developers who are just starting out or for experienced developers looking to brush up on their skills, or if you're looking for meme-worthy content to share among your programmer friends. Fireship is a valuable resource for all. Jeff's passion for teaching and commitment to providing quality content makes it a must-watch channel for anyone in the tech community.

TLDR;

Watch Fireship, Code Better, Laugh Lots, Profit.

Finally,

There is a world of content on the internet that will make you a better dev and designer. Ultimately it comes down to practice, no video, podcast, blog, or book will make you better. It is up to you to get better. Use these mediums to find things that excite you, and then get better at those things! Learn your weaknesses, learn your strengths and don't shy away from trying something that could be good for you.

Make Good Things.