DDP Programming

Feb 23, 2025

The Shifting Landscape of Programming

Mike Loukides' O'Reilly analysis highlights a fundamental transformation in programming: we're moving away from line-by-line coding toward problem-solving and domain understanding. This aligns with the concept of Deep Domain Problems (DDPs), where value comes from addressing complex, high-impact challenges rather than building more apps or dashboards.

The New Programming Paradigm

Domain-First Thinking

While traditional programming starts with code, modern approaches begin with domain understanding. Success requires:

  1. Knowledge Mapping: Building shared vocabularies and understanding expert decision processes. Our systematic approach provides a framework for this process.

  2. Structured Analysis: Problems must be decomposed methodically. See our supply chain optimization case study for a practical example that achieved 7% delay reduction and 10% fuel cost savings.

  3. AI Integration: Tools like ChatGPT and Copilot serve as consultants rather than replacements. Learn from our analysis of avoiding AI pitfalls.

Technical Excellence

Modern programming demands both domain knowledge and technical expertise. Our technical patterns guide explores essential patterns like:

  • Domain-Driven Architecture
  • Event-Sourcing Systems
  • Decision Engine Implementation
  • AI Integration Strategies
  • Performance Optimization

Real-World Impact

The effectiveness of domain-first programming is evident in our case studies:

  • Lending: Our lending analysis demonstrates systematically capturing complex domain knowledge while preserving expert judgment.
  • Supply Chain: The optimization study shows how domain expertise and technical innovation combine for measurable improvements.

The Path Forward

For Developers

  1. Domain Learning: Invest in understanding industry processes and regulations
  2. AI Mastery: Learn effective AI tool usage without over-reliance
  3. Systems Thinking: Focus on complex interactions and dependencies

For Organizations

  1. Enable Collaboration: Create environments where domain experts and technologists thrive together
  2. Support Knowledge Growth: Invest in long-term domain expertise development
  3. Balance Innovation: Combine AI capabilities with human insight

Conclusion

The evolution of programming marks a shift toward sophisticated problem-solving rather than just coding. Success in this new era requires strong partnerships between domain experts and technologists, systematic problem decomposition, and effective AI tool usage while maintaining domain expertise focus.

For implementation strategies and deeper insights, explore our guides on bringing solutions to market and establishing shared understanding.

Further Reading