Yukon setups: Dave Rogers
April 13, 2010
This is the third in a series of seven interviews - first was Patrick Goruick and second was me - with creative people who live and work in the Yukon. This time ‘round, it’s Dave Rogers.
Who are you, and what do you do?
Why, I am none other than the Dave Rogers, top dude at yukon dude.
Technically, my little business is named yukon dude software, but I’ve been de-emphasizing the whole software part as I move more into data extraction and analysis. Sounds sexy, no? Simply—and alliteratively—put, I dig deposited data out of dusty and decrepit databases. Then I tart it up and surprise the client with my findings. Along the way I tend to write a number of ad-hoc computer programlets.
My goal in business has always been to do the opposite of what the client’s-buddy’s-niece claims she can do for $5/hour.
What computer hardware are you using?
My assortment of hardware is quite modest. I have a Dell Studio 17 knee-crushing thigh cozy running Ubuntu GNU/Linux 9.10. If for some inane reason I should need MS Windows, I either bring up XP in VirtualBox or dual-boot into Vista.
There’s also a small home server in the corner of the office, and a virtual “slice” server down in Missouri, both running the server version of Ubuntu.
I refuse to carry a cell, smartphone, or iPhad. However, I often dream of whipping out a pocket-sized Etch A Sketch at a meeting.
What about software?
At this point we veer sharply into left field, as my selection of software tools is a tad eclectic: vim, NetBeans, LaTeX, Numpy, bash, OpenOffice, and Mercurial, to name but a few. Plus whatever database software is installed at the client.
Where does the magic happen?
Dude headquarters is pretty much what you see: cheap chair, cheap desk, a wine rack printer stand, and a Bluetooth keyboard and wireless mouse keep things tidy.
I don’t know whether it was wise to show the robots, Lego, and robots made of Lego in the photograph; I fear that I’ll need a stick to beat off the many lady groupies that such a display is bound to attract.
What would be your ideal set-up?
If coveting thy neighbour’s Herman Miller Aeron chair is a sin, then sign me up for the Styx river-tour.
Comments
I don’t know Dave but after this little interview I sure wish I did.
I’ve been enjoying these - keep ‘em coming. Thanks!
Jon Gel on April 15, 2010
Glad you’re digging the interviews, Jon. It’s been fun!
