The Linux XP

Message ID: 390856

Posted By: deepdistrust

Subject: The Linux XP

A good critique of Extreme Programming (XP) can be found in the "Extreme Programming Refactored" book. XP is supposed to be this new-fangled method of software development, where requirements are collected piece-meal, and programs are 'grown' as needs change rather than being designed. It is the choice method of the Lazy Coder. As can be expected when there is little design, the programs produced by XP tend to be rather shabby and unwieldy. XP is surving mostly by hype, just like Linux is.

The Linux kernel coders have embraced XP as their development method. Linux is not designed, but is 'grown'. This is why the API's keep changing even across point releases. This, in turn, makes writing and maintaining device drivers for Linux a pain. This is why the device makers are not exactly rushing to develop drivers for Linux. That, in turn, explains why a lot of the hardware doesn't work with Linux, and why most people that try Linux ditch it after a short time.

The general lack of planning in Linux is why, while Microsoft keeps coming out with ever-improving operating systems, Linux largely remains the same crappy operating system it was ten years ago. For once, Microsoft is beating its enemy out on merit.

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