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About this quote

What does it mean?
Software often ends up being used in ways its creators never intended.
In plain terms
Programs get used for things they weren't made for.
What can you take from it?
Expect your software to be used in unexpected ways.

Where it applies

  • product launch
  • user feedback
  • maintenance

Putting it to work

  • design for flexibility
  • monitor usage patterns
  • document limitations

Questions to consider

  • How is your software actually being used?
  • What unintended uses should you anticipate?

Another view

Some systems are built so tightly that unintended use is impossible.

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