JustKernel

During my experience I worked on the application level softwares and kernel / device drivers in some of the best organizations like Samsung and McAfee.

One major difference I noticed in design approach is that for application level projects major focus is on designing the module. Coding is relatively simpler. Most of the time is spent on the design while less on coding. It gives a good result.

For kernel level projects/ device driver, concentration on design is less while on coding is more. Design just goes on simultaneously with coding. This also gives good results.

Why this difference is there. Is this difference correct and is normal or I have had relatively bad experience and designing is equally important in application and kernel level stuff.

I am of the view that , since programming for kernel/device drivers is relative tougher as you have to deal with crashes, device IOs in real time, one is unsure of the constructs and structures and not sure whether a particular driver will work or not, more stress is laid on coding. While programming for application stuff is relatively easier with you are sure for the end results, less effort is required for coding.

Anshul Makkar, anshul_makkar@justkernel.com

Originally Posted On: 2010-04-16 04:17:41