C#.... what next?
Discussion
Ok, as there seems to be a wealth of knowledge on here in the development business, can i ask for some experiences and or pointers please?
I'm currently doing mainly winforms based development (3 tier app SQL server backend, so pretty standard stuff) in C#. I also maintain the companies network, servers and communications infrastructure. I've been doing this for about 4 years and want to move on. I like my job, but it's a small company so there is no real progression path and it's getting stagnant. I want to get out of coding, I love the mental challenge and satisfaction of completing a job, but I don't like the insular nature of the job, it's starting to drive me mad!
If you have the time, it would be great to hear from anyone who has made a similar move, into something either completely different or related that has made use of similar experience. Or if anyone has any pointers on what would be a good next move considering my knowledge, that would be great.
Many thanks for any replies.
James.
I'm currently doing mainly winforms based development (3 tier app SQL server backend, so pretty standard stuff) in C#. I also maintain the companies network, servers and communications infrastructure. I've been doing this for about 4 years and want to move on. I like my job, but it's a small company so there is no real progression path and it's getting stagnant. I want to get out of coding, I love the mental challenge and satisfaction of completing a job, but I don't like the insular nature of the job, it's starting to drive me mad!
If you have the time, it would be great to hear from anyone who has made a similar move, into something either completely different or related that has made use of similar experience. Or if anyone has any pointers on what would be a good next move considering my knowledge, that would be great.
Many thanks for any replies.
James.
Logical progression would be getting into Systems Analysis and Systems Design work.
You could consider trying to get into a Consultancy. Lots of variety of work - developing systems for clients at client sites.
The Consultancy route gives you plenty of opportunity for progression too - as there is always new work to do. Eventually the contacts you make and knowledge of the business could stand you in good stead for setting out on your own - or with some partners - doing bespoke system builds.
I followed that route. Then we got into software product development and, voila, ProjXNET was born.
Downside of Consulting is that its a young man's game. Constantly away from home - albeit usually getting well paid for it. If you're a homebody this is probably hell. The irony is the clients don't want young pups - they want grizzled old dogs who have been in the biz for years and know what they're doing.
If I ever need money I'll go join a Consultancy or perhaps Contract doing the same sort of work.
You could consider trying to get into a Consultancy. Lots of variety of work - developing systems for clients at client sites.
The Consultancy route gives you plenty of opportunity for progression too - as there is always new work to do. Eventually the contacts you make and knowledge of the business could stand you in good stead for setting out on your own - or with some partners - doing bespoke system builds.
I followed that route. Then we got into software product development and, voila, ProjXNET was born.
Downside of Consulting is that its a young man's game. Constantly away from home - albeit usually getting well paid for it. If you're a homebody this is probably hell. The irony is the clients don't want young pups - they want grizzled old dogs who have been in the biz for years and know what they're doing.
If I ever need money I'll go join a Consultancy or perhaps Contract doing the same sort of work.
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