The title of this entry is a standard mantra for agile programming efforts. And sometimes agile principles apply in other arenas besides software development. For example, my wife and I came up with a great idea for carving pumpkins this Halloween. In years past, I carved pumpkins like just about everyone else: with a large, foreboding knife that awakens fearful images of horrific scenes when wielded. Well no more, because sometimes the quickest thing that works is also the safest thing.
First, set the butcher's machete aside. Now trace a face on the pumpkin with a pencil. Next, grab a drill (cordless is handy, though any drill will do). Yes, I said a drill. Now make holes in the pumpkin using the drill, following the outline you drew with the pencil. The end result looks really cool and was much easier than using a knife.
So, I guess the lesson is that sometimes an unconventional approach pays off. If you try drilling your pumpkins this year, let me know how it goes.
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