What tattoos and software projects have in common

In this session, we’ll explore why getting a tattoo and building software aren’t as different as they might seem. Both require vision, trust, and a steady hand; whether it’s ink hitting skin or code hitting production. We’ll look at how great artists and great developers share a respect for careful planning, a willingness to iterate, and the courage to commit. By the end, you’ll see that whether you’re holding a tattoo gun or a keyboard, the path to something remarkable is forged through patience, care, and embracing the unexpected. As a tattooed software guy i know of what i am speaking :)

Transcript

1. Exploring the similarities between art and technology Jan Moser, WeAreDevelopers World Congress 2025 WHAT TATTOOS AND SOFTWARE PROJECTS HAVE IN COMMON pictur e: internet 2025
2. Tattoos • Tattoos are a form of body art that allow individuals to express their identity, beliefs, or commemorate important life events. • The process of getting a tattoo involves injecting ink into the dermis layer of the skin using specialized needles. • Tattoo styles and cultural significance vary widely around the world, reflecting both ancient traditions and modern trends. Software engineering • Software engineering is the discipline of designing, developing, and maintaining software systems using systematic and structured approaches. • It emphasizes best practices such as code review, version control, and testing to ensure software reliability and scalability. • Collaboration, problem-solving, and continuous learning are essential skills for software engineers in a rapidly evolving technology landscape. AN UNLIKELY COMPARISON? pictur e: internet 2025
3. Artistic expression Both tattoos and software projects serve as powerful forms of artistic expression, showcasing unique personal traits in their creation. Creative process Tattoo artists and software developers transform abstract ideas into tangible forms, whether on skin or screen. Individual purpose Both tattoos and software projects serve individual purposes and despite there being common styles and patterns, the final product is a highly individual customized creation. AU CONTRAIRE… pictur e: internet 2025
4. Communicating the vision Tattoos and software projects usually are not (or should not be) a spontaneous idea. They normally reflect some personal significance, need or vision. It is important provide as much context as possible and communicate it! Understanding client-needs Recognizing and comprehending client needs is crucial to achieve a successful outcome in both tattoos and software projects. Creating blueprints Drafting blueprints or creating upfront tattoo designs helps in visualizing the project and serves as a guide during the execution phase and as a reference for both parties about the described vision.. Negotiating the price Both tattoos and software projects come at a cost. You pay for experience and craft of the artist or software engineer. Usually there is no free or cheap tattoo nor software project. PLANNING AND DESIGN: IMPORTANCE OF CLEAR VISION AND COMMUNICATION BONUS: Be aware of the consequences Tattoos are painful, they take time and money, and once you started, it usually is a very bad idea to stop in the middle of the process. Same goes for software projects! pictur e: internet 2025
5. Craftsmanship quality The quality of craftsmanship in both tattooing and software development directly impacts their success and longevity. Painful and confusing sessions Tattooing hurts. Sometimes more, sometimes less, depending on the pain tolerance and body part. And so do software projects…plus often you do not see the real progress…but trust the process… Iterative process Tattoos often are not done in one session, software projects not after one sprint. This requires the acceptance of unfinished products after an iteration / session and the challenge of producing a potentially shippable / visually appealing intermediate product. EXECUTION: CRAF TSMANSHIP AND PRECISION pictur e: internet 2025
6. Longevity of decisions Tattoos, their motives and placement are permanent decisions. You own them, if you want or not. The same goes for software products. Decisions you take during the development process are usually here to stay…or expensive to fix. Care and maintenance Tattoos require regular care and maintenance to preserve their appearance and vibrancy over time. Software as well must be regularly updated and maintained to ensure optimal performance and security in a rapidly changing environment. Ongoing attention Both tattoos and software require continuous attention to keep them relevant, effective, and well-maintained. AF TERCARE: LONGEVIT Y AND MAINTENANCE pictur e: internet 2025
7. Communication is key Both tattoos and software projects require careful planning and design to achieve the desired outcome. Painful but oddly satisfying The execution phase in both domains involves precise techniques and skills to bring ideas to life. The process is often an expensive and painful one. The consequences of ownership As in software projects, you own your tattoos and the decisions that lead to them. Corrections or removal are often as painful, complicated and expensive as their creation. Aftercare required To keep software projects and tattoos relevant and their motives vibrant, both need aftercare in form of ointments, refactoring and maintenance. CONCLUSION
8. /ME 25+ years in the tech industry born in Switzerland, living in Asia since several years love to spin tunes for people tattooed and opinionated