CloudDB Client
Cloud Databases :: CloudDB Client
WHAT?
CloudDB Client is a UI packaged as a Google Chrome extension for the Rackspace Cloud Database API service.
WHY?
I (very quickly) wrote CloudDB Client in order to expand the audience of the Cloud Database product to users that require a UI.
FUNCTIONALITY
Currently only browsing, create, and delete functionality is exposed.
SUPPORT
Although I am a Rackspace employee, this is not a Rackspace supported product. As such no support is provided by that organization. You may however contact me directly and I will attempt to help you as time allows. (There are probably bugs).
DISCLAIMER
This extension exposes capabilities that may result in the loss of data. I will not be held responsible for loss of data incurred by the use of this extension intentional or otherwise.
DOWNLOAD
SOURCE?
The source will be made available soon via github.
FUTURE
Should this extension generate enough interest, I will continue work on exposing the remainder of the API functionality.
Show Some Class :: Derailing a Detractor
At some point during your professional career as a core contributor, you will eventually encounter an individual that has chosen a less than socially acceptable fashion of delivering criticism to yourself or your current project. While the immediate response (well at least mine), would be to discount the comments and continue working, this can actually be counter productive to achieving your goal at large. The need to address the problem also scales in association with the critic’s audience, and their persistence in pushing their views regardless of merit or lack thereof.
Step 1 - Understanding
It’s understanding that makes it possible for people like us to tolerate a person like yourself.
—Ferris Bueller
First we need to understand the reason these derogatory statements are being expressed. Typically in most situations inadequate communications, verbal, written, or otherwise have created an environment where knowledge of the subject matter has not been transferred effectively. Other factors may have exacerbated the root cause. Perhaps you yourself have not practiced proper communications management, perhaps this responsibility lies on the side of the detractor. At any rate, an attempt must be made to understand the reasons that would motivate the responsible party.
Step 2 - Schedule a Meeting
After you have attained a basic understanding of what might be motivating your detractor, and the topics involved, request a meeting with the individual. This should be done in person, and can be as easy as stating:
I understand you have some concerns in relation to x. I would like to better understand how x affects you and how I can address your concerns! Would you be able to find time to discuss the subject?
You might also request a topic summary from the individual so you can be better prepared for the encounter. These should be simply, to allow you to organize your thoughts and should not be used to prepare canned responses. Dynamic conversation is the hallmark of sincerity and should be used to establish rapport.
Step 3 - Have the Meeting
Armed with understanding, knowledge of the subject matter, and a sincere desire to address your detractor’s needs you are know ready to turn the tables. Before leaving the meeting the following should be accomplished:
- Knowledge of the subject matter will have been transferred
- A list of deliverables required (if any) will be documented
- A working relationship will be established with the individual
Step 4 - Profit
Assuming you have adequately addressed your detractor’s requirements and any communication issues that contributed to the problem, you should now have a promoter!
Very few people will turn away an individual that is attempting to help them in a sincere manner. Even fewer will speak poorly of him in the presence of others after help has been offered.
A first post
Playing with my tumblr theme weeee!
