Re: Expert user vs. Internals Expert

To get back at the initial reason for that thread on knowing what's more important between being expert in a particular implementation VS being knowledgeable in relational database theory, the question has been clearly answered...

--> By far, the most productive are those who have solid knowledge of
both.

Now a few comments...

<<Whoever has the gold makes the rules>> While I understand this perspective, I do not accept it and actively fight it. The very reason a client pays somebody gold is because on brings him something such as knowledge and know how that client does not have in a specific context...If one accepts the principle that clients can NOT be wrong and accepts the principle that the best course of action is to say to the client "you are right", then one is dealing with an ethical issue with lots of implications.

First, you are negating your own expertise and admitting that the client has no real reason paying you (why not somebody else then?) --> In a word, you must be ready to stand your position in front of the client if necessary. Avoiding confrontation at all cost (even with the client) is a short sighted view as to what makes a good relationship with the client.

Second, if the client is totally wrong, then you are selling him crap (do not complain after that he dumps you at first occasion). Yes clients can be totally wrong and it's your job to tell them else you are not being honnest toward them.

Third, by spreading around this kind of mentality, you are making the job of all database practictionners more difficult because all will look the same in the mind of clients. Clients will actually start believing they actually do understand something and that you are here only to get money out from them. Received on Mon May 29 2006 - 10:50:44 CEST