I find the analogy between developing software and building a house to be quite accurate, especially since I've done both!

I'm "self-taught" in both industries and have designed, written & implemented full scale applications in an I.T. environment and I physically constructed my own house (over 2K sq. ft. with an all wood basement).

Although I'm reputed to be a notorious "brain picker" when I'm trying to learn a new skill, I feel that the basic skill of being able to think through a problem/project in a logical progression (and recognize the potential constraints and short cuts during the planning stages) is the fundamental road to succeeding.

I did chuckle at your "loss of materials" comparison in the construction industry. Big tip! - If you're ever building anything with lumber and nails, pick up a sawzall (reciprocating saw). I was 4 inches off with a centering a door opening, and after cutting through the nails with the sawzall and relocating the door, I was only behind a couple of nails and a few minutes...

Gary Clinton