How much creativity do developers truly get to infuse into their solutions? Could having a universal understanding of basic programming principles make us better as a society? What does a digital detox look like in an increasingly digital world? Is Microsoft objectively better than Apple?
Read on to get answers to these questions and more from CID’s Software Developer, Nick Papadakis!
Q: Many don’t realize just how much creative thinking and problem-solving goes into bringing innovative digital spaces to life. What does that process look like for you and your team?
A: At the core, the CID development team views our role as solution providers. While technologies and frameworks continually evolve, our fundamental purpose remains constant — to collaborate with clients in precisely identifying their business challenges and then to devise tailored solutions to overcome those obstacles.
We see ourselves as strategic partners, leveraging our expertise to unlock new opportunities and drive success for the organizations we serve.
Q: A lot of your work is often kept “behind the curtain.” What’s something that you wish everyone (or at least more people) knew about your job?
A: I find it somewhat disheartening that programming knowledge seems to be lacking in many circles. Whenever I mention that I work as a software developer, writing code for a living, the conversation often abruptly stalls. It's as if people instantly perceive it as an overly complex and impenetrable domain.
However, I truly believe that having at least a basic understanding of programming principles could greatly benefit society. Even a cursory introduction could help demystify this field and foster a greater appreciation for the role it plays in our increasingly tech-driven world.
Q: If you had the chance to work on anything, no limits whatsoever, what would that dream project be for you?
A: While I don't have one specific "dream project" in mind, the idea of working on something within the music industry piques my interest. Given my background and passion for music, the prospect of contributing to one of the major digital audio workstation codebases could be an incredibly fulfilling endeavor. Merging my technical skills with my artistic interests in that realm would undoubtedly be an immensely gratifying experience.
“We [developers] see ourselves as strategic partners, leveraging our expertise to unlock new opportunities and drive success for the organizations we serve.”
Q: What do you enjoy about your role or being at CID in general?
A: Being a part of the CID team has been an incredibly rewarding experience! This environment fosters continuous growth and learning, as I find myself constantly challenged to expand my skills and knowledge. The combination of stimulating work and a supportive, driven team culture creates an atmosphere that is both intellectually engaging and genuinely enjoyable.
Q: How did you get started as a developer? Did young Nick ever think he would be something else
“when he grew up?”
A: Looking back, my younger self never envisioned embarking on this career path. Throughout my twenties, I was a passionate yet struggling musician, relentlessly touring and living the nomadic lifestyle that pursuit entailed. However, living on the road eventually took its toll, and I found myself yearning for a more settled existence. It was during this transitional period in my late twenties that I made the pivotal decision to return to academia, pursuing a degree in computer engineering. This shift in trajectory ultimately paved the way for the professional journey I find myself on today.
Q: Do you have any advice for someone who is just starting out? Or someone who is looking to make a pivot into the developer world?
A: We strongly encourage mastering both the back-end and front-end aspects of development. One of the most rewarding elements of our roles is the ability to immerse ourselves in crafting sophisticated server-side solutions, while also pouring our creativity into designing stunning and intuitive user interfaces. This versatility allows us to appreciate the full-stack experience and create truly cohesive digital products that seamlessly blend robust functionality with delightful user experiences.
Q: Burnout is a real thing for creative thinkers in every industry and medium, how do you fight back against it?
A: I firmly believe in the importance of taking genuine vacations that allow you to completely recharge and reset. During my time off, I make a conscious effort to minimize my exposure to technology and truly "unplug" from the digital world. This digital detox enables me to return to work feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Q: If you could go back in time and give your younger self one piece of advice or one “spoiler” about the future, what would you tell them?
A: Never stop learning. The world and technology are constantly evolving, so commit to continuously expanding your knowledge and skills. Adopt a growth mindset - be curious, ask questions, read, take courses, and seek out new challenges that push you beyond your comfort zone. Lifelong learning will help you stay relevant, adaptable, and engaged in your personal and professional life.
It’s the LIGHTNING ROUND! Don’t think! Just answer. Ready, GO!
Q: What’s your go-to karaoke song?
A: “The Weight,” by The Band
Q: Favorite movie or TV show?
A: The Office
Q: If you could trade lives with any living person for a single day, who would you trade with?
A: Paul McCartney
Q: Go camping in the mountains or lounging on a beach resort?
A: Beach. I don’t camp.
Q: Would you rather give an important public speech or be trapped in a room with a GIANT spider for an hour?
A: I’d be good with either one!
Q: HOT TAKE: Mac or PC?
A: Microsoft forever.
Want creative problem solvers like Nick to help you bring your next groundbreaking web solution to life? Contact CID to get started!
"Bring in the Klinkhammer," they said...and we did! Amy is part of our award-winning marketing & strategy team where she writes for ads, email, the web, video and so much more. She also drinks too much coffee and spends too much time debating the Oxford comma.