There is an aspect of programming that is essential to productivity. It is the time it takes a developer to get into their “zone” where they are most productive (much, much more productive than at other times). There are several articles in particular that expound upon this principle.
- Cringe from crossing a concentrating coder
- The alone time zone
- Instant Messaging Proves Useful In Reducing Workplace Interruption
- Developer Productivity: The Art of Saying No
If a developer or designer has their headphones on and seems to be “in the zone“, try to refrain from interrupting them unless deemed absolutely necessary. Try to email.
Acceptable Forms of “Interrupting”
These forms of communication are “asynchronous”. That means that these forms of communication fit into the flow of thought much more easily. The developer or designer can retain their focus on their computer the whole time.