THE SIX QUESTIONS
What is it? Where will it be useable? When will it be finished? Who is it for? Why does it exist? How do I use it?
DESIGN AND BUILD TOOLS FOR YOURSELF FIRST
the best tools are the ones for the task at hand. such a perfect tool may not exist; build it. "if you build it, they will come"
MAKE THINGS WITH A REASON TO EXIST
if it's a meaningless tool then it's not going to be used. if it's not saying something or exploring an idea then it is pointless. speak only when you have something to say.
START OVER FREQUENTLY; BUT DONT STAY
contrary to most people's views on finishing things, starting over is a great way to review what youve learned and rebuild systems into something that works elegantly. each time you start over make sure to advance or roll back to the latest iteration. (of course make sure to back up old versions)
WRITE [CODE/CONTENT] EFFICIENTLY
say as much as you can in as little as possible, code or content.
IT'S MEANT TO BE USED, SO USE IT
what's the point if you're not using your tools? who is it for?