Curastory

curastory

As a curator at one of the world’s largest online art galleries, I'm often asked, What is curation? What is a curator's role in the arts? And, more recently, does curation have a place in the rising space of art NFTs, especially given that it is such a decentralized movement? I wholeheartedly believe that curation does have an important role in the space. The industry will not only need artists to create NFTs and collectors to purchase them, but it also needs curators to help develop and foster talent, and guide buyers towards finding the next work to add to their collection. A curator can also help society better understand what art NFTs are, and provide insight into an individual work’s value and meaning within the context of this historic art movement. While much of the promise of crypto art lies in its potential to democratize art creation and collection, curators remain essential. Here are a few ways they will play a role in the shaping of the crypto art scene. The Role of Curation and Art NFTs There really isn't one definition of what it means to be a curator, and it's even more undefined in the NFT space. Traditionally, , “The curator is a steward of art objects, as indicated by the Latin etymology of ‘Curarae’ or to take care of, attend to. … A good curator provides information, connections, and even contrasts to understand what makes art relevant today.” as Sotheby’s puts it How does that apply to new spaces created by technological advances, where art is no longer only a painting or sculpture in a museum or gallery, but accessible to everyone to view online? What does curation mean in a new industry where artists and collectors are bypassing traditional gatekeepers? Whether it be for NFTs or physical artworks, I see the role of a curator as having several different facets, each of which is important in the development of great art, and having that great art be appreciated by a wider audience. We already know that the archetypical picture of who “can/should” be a curator is changing, which means that what curation looks like is going to change, too. However, there are a few core attributes that curators must possess, even if the people and processes change. A Curator Works with Artists Curators are dedicated to an artist’s craft and career. Curators not only identify new talent, but work with that talent to foster their creativity and develop their career objectives. Getting to know artists and their inspiration means that curators can better write and speak about artists’ work, in order to generate interest within a wider audience. Curators also provide portfolio reviews, advocate for artists’ work, and lend needed support throughout the artistic journey. This type of patronage is incredibly important, as it allows artists the ability to focus on what they are best at: creating. In the context of the crypto art universe, curators can usher artists into the space by helping them to better understand how they can maximize their creativity, what type of NFT approach will be best for their career growth, how to price their art (our recent report on “Making a Living as an Artist” found that the biggest challenge to artists was correctly pricing their NFT), and how to use NFTs for income generation. Curators Curate Curators also curate art by thoughtfully organizing and arranging works and collections in a way that tells a story to the audience. This can include not only organizing exhibitions and shows, but writing about artists, trends, and movements, too. You could even say that this role makes curators preservers of history, art, and culture. Because curatorial efforts teach a broader audience how to appreciate art and help them understand why that art is important, curators will play a critical role in communicating the value and necessity of art NFTs. Since curators are aware of the many players in the space — artists, collectors, galleries, other curators, institutions, and more — they can better understand the ripple effect of a single drop or series, which can better inform their work with artists and collectors. Curators are Advisors to Collectors Curators also play an important role in working with interested buyers in order to connect them with pieces of art they'll enjoy and want to own. Curators meet the collector, and seek to understand their goals, which could vary widely from person to person — from wanting to build a collection focused on a medium or theme to focusing only on those works which will increase in value over time. Another way curators advise collectors is by spending time keeping up on artists and art movements so they can better inform buyers who may not have the time to dedicate to researching artworks. With art NFTs, this means not only understanding a collector’s goals — are they looking for generative works? important NFT drops? a name behind the art? — but educating them on the technology of the space, helping them to properly set up asset storage, and more. Curators are Guides in the NFT World In the rising crypto art space, curators will play the necessary role of guide: they'll know every inch of this new landscape, and be able to lead both artists and collectors through this relatively unknown world, providing education and direction along the way. This will be especially important as many artists and collectors seek to learn more about what NFTs are, the technology powering them, the value they can bring to both artists and collectors, and where the future of the industry is going. Ultimately, curators help make art accessible, both to collectors through education and contextualization, and to artists by breaking down the barriers to creation. Catalysts of New Art Approaches In a dissecting the overuse of the term “curator,” critic and historian Hans-Ulrich Obrist defines the role as “a catalyst, generator and motivator — a sparring partner, accompanying the artist while they build a show, and a bridge builder, creating a bridge to the public.” I’ve personally never been a fan of the word “curator” because of the sometimes stuffy connotations that come with it, which have never felt true to who I was or what my role at Saatchi Art entailed. But I like Obrist’s more dynamic interpretation, and that it speaks as compellingly to NFTs as to traditional art. The role curators will play in the emerging category of crypto art is one of catalyst and motivator, helping us to find a new way of comprehending art, and as bridge-builders creating ease of access to new artistic approaches. New York Times article

Curators Will Play a Major Role in Fostering Art NFTs — Here’s Why

This story is a part of Hacker Noon's of interviews. The series is intended for tech professionals contributing the most insightful Hacker Noon stories to share more about their writing habits, ideas, and professional background (and maybe a hobby or two). Meet the Writer series If you too would like to start contributing to Hacker Noon, . you can do so here So let’s start! Tell us a bit about yourself. For example, name, profession, and personal interests. I’m Craig Williams, and as a Craig Williams, I like to do Craig Williams-related things like firing up the Playstation and playing a game so difficult I develop clinical anger issues followed by clinical depression. (I’m looking at you Fume Knight from Dark Souls 2…and the person reading this telling me that the Fume Knight like one of the easiest bosses and that I’m just a scrub.) But when I’m not gitting gud at Soulbornesque games, I’m attempting to git gud and stand up. If you wander around coastal Alabama and Mississippi long enough, you’re bound to see me trying to make drunk people laugh at my high-brow knock-knock jokes. Comedy isn’t all I do though; I’m also a professional Software Developer, and that intersection of comedy and tech is kind of what piqued my interest and drew me to Hacker Noon in the first place, so here I am! A disclaimer: As a console gamer, I am not responsible for my slovenly and unsophisticated manner. We console gamers are simple folk who don’t understand the ways of the superior PC gamer, and for that we’re sorry. Interesting! What was your latest Hackernoon Top story about? It was about how to explain blockchain gaming to your grandma. I saw a lot of in-depth explanations of blockchain gaming here and there floating around the internet, so I wanted to put together an article that gives a high-level overview in a way that even an AARP member can understand. It takes the concept of blockchain gaming and applies it directly to your forehead like Head On. Blockchain technology—directly to the forehead. Play-to-Earn—directly to the forehead. Cryptocurrency—directly to the forehead. Give it a read if you have time to waste at work or if you just want to use it as a point of reference for actually explaining blockchain gaming to your grandma! And hey, if your grandma isn’t super enthusiastic to learn about blockchain gaming, just know that’s totally normal. Honestly, I’ve never seen a grandmother more excited about blockchain gaming than my grandma, and she’s dead. Do you usually write on similar topics? If not, what do you usually write about? No, I do a lot of writing for standup, so I’ve run the gamut of topics that I’ve written about. Nobody wants to come to watch somebody tell jokes about the same topic all the time, so I try to keep things fresh. Everything I write does stay within the realm of comedy though. Outside of that though, I don’t have a particular subject matter that I’m usually writing. It could be anything from Paula Dean to deli meat to how to end world hunger with Paula Dean and deli meat. Great! What is your usual writing routine like (if you have one?) Make words. Delete those words because they suck. Write new words that are marginally better. Walk away and think of better words. Rush back to the computer to use those better words. Realize I’ve already forgotten those words. Weep quietly. Repeat. Being a writer in tech can be a challenge. It’s not often our main role, but an addition to another one. What is the biggest challenge you have when it comes to writing? Trying to capture my voice in my writing. It’s a challenge, but it’s also a big part of the fun of writing for me. At least that way if I write something that sucks, I know that it sucks in a way that is uniquely my own. Basically, the biggest challenge is making sure my writing doesn’t read like the directions on the back of a Hot Pocket container. The succinct Hot Pocket-style list of steps I wrote in the previous section doesn’t count because I stole that template from a Bagel Bites container. What is the next thing you hope to achieve in your career? This. Seriously! I love getting work as a comic, but I love writing just as much. I’m really putting everything I have into getting more writing jobs and really growing my portfolio. I don’t want to just make drunk people laugh in bars; I want to make wine-drunk suburban moms laugh in Cheesecake Factories. I enjoy writing for a tech niche, but I want to dip my toes in everything. What’s that, Hacker Noon reader? You’re reading this and you want to pay me to write your snail’s obituary, but from the perspective of Robert E. Lee? The answer is “yes”. Wow, that’s admirable. Now, something more casual: What is your guilty pleasure of choice? Hot. Garbage. Television. Love Island, 90 Day Fiancé, Here Comes Honey Boo Boo’s Incarcerated Cousin’s Sister Wives’ 600 lb. Life; basically any show that has hot dumpster fires of people, I’m all about it. Do you have a non-tech-related hobby? If yes, what is it? Cooking! Ever since I was a kid, I’ve loved the kitchen. While all the other kids were watching Pokemon, I was watching Essence of Emeril. I mean, I was watching Pokemon too, but Ash doesn’t know shit about becoming the very best Jambalaya master. That love of cooking has stayed with me, though. My palette and waistline have since expanded. What can the Hacker Noon community expect to read from you next? I’ve got a lot of ideas kicking around in my head! Right now there are video games, Simulation Hypothesis, and cryptozoology all bouncing around my frontal cortex. I’ll probably end up baking them all together into one story, creating the literary equivalent of an Arby’s Meat Mountain. It’ll be bad for your brain, there may be no real substance to it, but you’ll have heart palpitations by the time you finish. Thanks for taking time to join our “Meet the writer” series. It was a pleasure. Do you have any closing words? Smash that motha’ lovin’ “Like” button! Well, there’s not a “Like” button, but seriously, if you like any of my writing, I’m doing it all the time in one form or another. I’ve always got some sort of comedic endeavor in the works, so if you like my stuff or just hate my stuff and want to watch my life fall apart in a downward spiral, then follow my socials and see what I’m up to!

Craig Williams is a Comedian and the Curator of Your Wasted Time

With the rising quantity of content on the internet, thanks to the boom of the creator economy, we are now at the age of information overload. Present-day AI is not yet powerful to wade through the vast information universe and provide content with context and intent. Curators are humans who bridge this gap by curating relevant information from the vastness of information available to us. Over the years, curators have become a vital part of information commerce. The curator economy is booming, and several businesses have proved it to be sustainable business. This article looks at the context of the curator economy, why it is important, and its present state in the age of information overload. The Boom of Creator Economy With the rising popularity of social media and the internet, the creator economy is at an all-time high. In 2021 alone, the creator economy has seen a . The cost of creating content continues to go down as more content creators appear online. The shift of content creation from big corporations to independent small creators around the globe has resulted in an age where we are overloaded with the vast availability of information. Decentralized and democratized content on the internet is driving this creator boom. record funding of $1.3 billion Age of Information Overload With the . The information you want to read is already there but is buried in the vast piles of articles, videos, and blog posts. We are currently in an era overloaded with information. Every day we are bombarded with the never-ending streams of irrelevant content, and it is easy to get lost in that. Here are to give you some context: creator economy booming, sorting content from the vast universe of information is becoming harder day by day some numbers 300 hours of video is uploaded on YouTube every minute in 2021. 90% of the data on the internet has been created since 2016. By the end of 2020, 44 of data made up the entire digital universe growing at the rate of 1.7 Mb per second per person. Zettabytes Every day 306.4 billion emails are sent, and 500 million tweets are made. Rise of Algorithms vs. Human Curation The rise of algorithms replacing humans in curating content started to gain some traction 20 years ago. for curating product recommendations to users. Algorithms play a major role in the content that we see on the internet today. Amazon replaced humans with algorithms Algorithms drive 70% of content on YouTube today. Even though algorithms powered by AI are curating large chunks of content for users, the future of content is human to human. Human-to-Human interaction always wins over the logic of algorithms. The AI at present is limited in terms of context when it comes to curation. The main aim of AI is to make users stay on the platform as long as possible. The big difference between AI and humans is the intent behind it. Even though humans are inefficient in processing large chunks of information like AI, a human can bring context to information. A human can analyze content, find common themes, and display only the relevant information. . Every curator is different as his/her skills and knowledge are different. So is the curator’s audience. These all factors create a unique combination that cannot be replaced by the AI advancement we have now. Even though AI is here to stay, as of now, it cannot replace human curation The Birth of Curator Economy Curation of content enables users to understand, explore and make sense of the topic or issue by organizing the best available information sources on the internet. When the information is served with a context, insights can be easily drawn, saving time and effort. Curation is one of the : Creation, Curation, and Consumption. Curation requires time and proper attention to sort through hundreds of articles and posts to recommend information. , and over the years, curation has become a sustainable business. As mentioned earlier, curation requires some effort, and curators often monetize their work for this. To give you some idea of the current state of the content curation economy, here are some examples: 3 Cs of information commerce The curation economy is booming on charges $8/month to get access to curated Spotify lists. FlowState Substack charges $5/month to access weekly article recommendations. The Browser currently has 10000+ subscribers who pay them annually. The Browser has 33,000+ subscribers and generates around $11,000 per month. The Generalist is a free newsletter that sends interesting things daily to your inbox, has over 100,000 subscribers, and makes around $1500 per month from patrons. NowIKnow has 1000+ paid subscribers within the first month of going premium. Everything Bundle Why Content Curation is Important Based on my experience and research, here’s a list of reasons what makes content curation important: Information is growing at an all-time high rate every day. There are multiple blogs, social channels, and news sources launched every day. This makes finding relevant content more and more difficult. With the rising information tsunami, it becomes hard for people who are inexperienced or new to the internet to identify reliable sources of information. If not checked properly, users are served with spam on misleading content. Webmasters and creators are concerned over the visibility on various platforms, thereby optimizing titles and content for search engine optimization. This often leads to spammy content with clickbaity titles and no relevance. Since the average free time for a person is decreasing, it is essential to only deliver and consume content that is precise, concise, and relevant. To get a grasp of the whole idea, some content usually needs to be contextualized. How to Become a Content Curator A content curator is someone who wades through the vastness of information, chooses the best content, and presents it in a context to the audience. Proper curation is about understanding the limited amount of time and attention span of the audience that is consuming the content. Best content creators consume large chunks of information, render the best from it to concise pieces of information by highlighting it to the audience. I follow the steps below for curation: Since curation requires expertise and knowledge, I read extensively ever since I started the newsletter. Every week I read 40+ newsletters, 70+ articles, 2 books and watch 20+ informative or documentary-style videos. Every time I consume an interesting piece of information that triggers my curiosity, I create a note about it on my Knowledge Management platform, . Obsidian On Fridays, from the long list of ideas, I finely curate 11 outstanding stories to create a skeleton for the newsletter. Every story featured will be cross-checked to ensure factual accuracy. Content finalized on Friday will be elaborated on Saturday with further information to match the style and context of the newsletter. Grammar check and readability tests are done to ensure content is delivered in the best possible way to the audience. Conclusion The concept of the curator economy is not new and has been discussed over the years as the future of content. Curation can eventually build a personal brand or audience. Data has shown the content curation is booming and is a sustainable source of income. “The future is in the intersection of Content Curation, Knowledge Management and Community”. This concept of Curator Economy is not an original idea and was inspired by researching various articles, research notes, and blog posts from the internet. Check out to learn about 11 interesting things every week. my newsletter Also published on . https://rishikeshs.com/curator-economy/

Why Human Curators Still Matter

Restoring Yesterday’s “Computer System of Tomorrow”: A Conversation with Curator & Xerox Alto…

Mental Clarity: Why It's the New Wealth in a World Designed to Confuse You

The ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards 2024 invites everyone to participate in the final voting phase to celebrate excellence in the NFT space.The voting period runs from November 6-10, 2024. The jury voting took place from November 1 to November 5, where a group of distinguished experts meticulously evaluated the submissions. During the jury phase, three nominees were selected from each category to move forward to the public voting stage. Now, it’s time for the blockchain voting phase. Meet the Jury Rahim Mahtab: Investor and Art Collector | Social Link: https://x.com/Rahim_mahtab
Sarah Scribner: Digital Collections Curator at 6529 Museum  | Social Link: https://x.com/foncedechic
pukerainbow (Amos): Founder of Pukecast & Rug Radio Asia  | Social Link: https://x.com/pukerrainbrow
Demetrio Paparoni: Art Critic, Curator, and Writer  | Social Link: https://www.demetriopaparoni.com During this period, NFT enthusiasts and the wider community will have the opportunity to cast their votes via the blockchain, ensuring a transparent voting process. This innovative approach reflects the core values of the NFT ecosystem, emphasizing fairness and community involvement. The results will play a pivotal role in determining the winners of the ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards 2024 in Malta. How to Vote Download Fastex Wallet
Go to the Website: Visit voting.ftnft.com
Connect Wallet: Click "Connect Wallet" or scan the QR code
Vote: Select your preferred nominees and submit your vote Join us in this exciting journey and support your favorite artists and projects! For more details and to stay updated on the Awards, please visit our website. Cast your vote today to celebrate innovation and creativity in the Web3 community and shape the future of digital art! About the ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards Now in its third edition, the ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards is an international event recognizing the most creative achievements in NFTs. Organized by ftNFT, the awards celebrate advancements in digital art, blockchain technology, and the NFT industry. This year, the event will be held on November 14 at Fort Manoel on Manoel Island, Malta—a location that merges historical ambiance with the forward-thinking NFT community spirit. The awards will honor talent across 15 categories, including NFT Project of the Year, Best Phygital NFT, and Most Innovative NFT Collection. Winners will be selected through public blockchain voting and data from the ftNFT.com marketplace, with winning projects receiving 2024 Fasttokens (FTN) as a prize. About ftNFT and Its Phygital Spaces Founded in 2022, ftNFT is a platform that combines a digital NFT marketplace with physical “phygital” spaces. As part of the Fastex Web3 ecosystem, ftNFT operates on the Bahamut and Ethereum blockchains, ensuring a secure and transparent environment for NFT transactions. In addition to its digital marketplace, ftNFT has opened four phygital spaces in Dubai, Yerevan, and Venice. These spaces offer visitors unique experiences with NFT art through 3D scanners and virtual galleries, blending physical and digital interactions. As the organizer of the YoCerebrum Awards, ftNFT is at the forefront of celebrating innovation within the NFT community. The ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards 2024 invites everyone to participate in the final voting phase to celebrate excellence in the NFT space.The voting period runs from November 6-10, 2024. voting phase voting phase The jury voting took place from November 1 to November 5, where a group of distinguished experts meticulously evaluated the submissions. During the jury phase, three nominees were selected from each category to move forward to the public voting stage. Now, it’s time for the blockchain voting phase. Meet the Jury Meet the Jury Rahim Mahtab: Investor and Art Collector | Social Link: https://x.com/Rahim_mahtab Sarah Scribner: Digital Collections Curator at 6529 Museum  | Social Link: https://x.com/foncedechic pukerainbow (Amos): Founder of Pukecast & Rug Radio Asia  | Social Link: https://x.com/pukerrainbrow Demetrio Paparoni: Art Critic, Curator, and Writer  | Social Link: https://www.demetriopaparoni.com Rahim Mahtab : Investor and Art Collector | Social Link: https://x.com/Rahim_mahtab Rahim Mahtab https://x.com/Rahim_mahtab Sarah Scribner : Digital Collections Curator at 6529 Museum  | Social Link: https://x.com/foncedechic Sarah Scribner https://x.com/foncedechic pukerainbow (Amos) : Founder of Pukecast & Rug Radio Asia  | Social Link: https://x.com/pukerrainbrow pukerainbow (Amos) https://x.com/pukerrainbrow Demetrio Paparoni : Art Critic, Curator, and Writer  | Social Link: https://www.demetriopaparoni.com Demetrio Paparoni https://www.demetriopaparoni.com During this period, NFT enthusiasts and the wider community will have the opportunity to cast their votes via the blockchain, ensuring a transparent voting process. This innovative approach reflects the core values of the NFT ecosystem, emphasizing fairness and community involvement. The results will play a pivotal role in determining the winners of the ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards 2024 in Malta. How to Vote How to Vote Download Fastex Wallet Go to the Website: Visit voting.ftnft.com Connect Wallet: Click "Connect Wallet" or scan the QR code Vote: Select your preferred nominees and submit your vote Download Fastex Wallet Go to the Website: Visit voting.ftnft.com voting.ftnft.com voting.ftnft.com Connect Wallet: Click "Connect Wallet" or scan the QR code Vote: Select your preferred nominees and submit your vote Join us in this exciting journey and support your favorite artists and projects! For more details and to stay updated on the Awards, please visit our website . our website our website Cast your vote today to celebrate innovation and creativity in the Web3 community and shape the future of digital art! Cast your vote today to celebrate innovation and creativity in the Web3 community and shape the future of digital art! About the ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards About the ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards Now in its third edition, the ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards is an international event recognizing the most creative achievements in NFTs. Organized by ftNFT , the awards celebrate advancements in digital art, blockchain technology, and the NFT industry. This year, the event will be held on November 14 at Fort Manoel on Manoel Island, Malta—a location that merges historical ambiance with the forward-thinking NFT community spirit. The awards will honor talent across 15 categories, including NFT Project of the Year, Best Phygital NFT, and Most Innovative NFT Collection. Winners will be selected through public blockchain voting and data from the ftNFT.com marketplace, with winning projects receiving 2024 Fasttokens (FTN) as a prize. ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards ftNFT YoCerebrum Awards ftNFT ftNFT Fasttokens (FTN) Fasttokens (FTN) About ftNFT and Its Phygital Spaces About ftNFT and Its Phygital Spaces Founded in 2022, ftNFT is a platform that combines a digital NFT marketplace with physical “phygital” spaces. As part of the Fastex Web3 ecosystem, ftNFT operates on the Bahamut and Ethereum blockchains, ensuring a secure and transparent environment for NFT transactions. In addition to its digital marketplace, ftNFT has opened four phygital spaces in Dubai, Yerevan, and Venice. These spaces offer visitors unique experiences with NFT art through 3D scanners and virtual galleries, blending physical and digital interactions. As the organizer of the YoCerebrum Awards, ftNFT is at the forefront of celebrating innovation within the NFT community.

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Understanding Parallel Programming: A Guide for Beginners

Holistic Evaluation of Text-to-Image Models: Datasheet

Full stack development is often likened to an intricate balancing act, where developers are expected to juggle multiple responsibilities across the frontend, backend, database, and beyond. As the definition of full stack development continues to evolve, so too does the approach to debugging. Full stack debugging is an essential skill for developers, as it involves tracking issues through multiple layers of an application, often navigating domains where one’s knowledge may only be cursory. In this blog post I aim to explore the nuances of full stack debugging, offering practical tips and insights for developers navigating the complex web of modern software development. Notice that this is an introductory post focusing mostly on the front end debugging aspects, in the following posts I will dig deeper into the less familiar capabilities in front end debugging. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mM8p2VrrEaE&embedable=true As a side note, if you like the content of this and the other posts in this series check out my Debugging book that covers this subject. If you have friends that are learning to code I'd appreciate a reference to my Java Basics book. If you want to get back to Java after a while check out my Java 8 to 21 book. Full Stack Development, A Shifting Definition The definition of full stack development is as fluid as the technology stacks themselves. Traditionally, full stack developers were defined as those who could work on both the frontend and backend of an application. However, as the industry evolves, this definition has expanded to include aspects of operations (OPS) and configuration. The modern full stack developer is expected to submit pull requests that cover all parts required to implement a feature—backend, database, frontend, and configuration. While this does not make them an expert in all these areas, it does require them to navigate across domains, often relying on domain experts for guidance. I've heard it said that full stack developers are: Jack of all trades, master of none. However, the full quote probably better represents the reality: Jack of all trades, master of none, but better than a master of one. The Full Stack Debugging Approach Just as full stack development involves working across various domains, full stack debugging requires a similar approach. A symptom of a bug may manifest in the frontend, but its root cause could lie deep within the backend or database layers. Full stack debugging is about tracing these issues through the layers and isolating them as quickly as possible. This is no easy task, especially when dealing with complex systems where multiple layers interact in unexpected ways. The key to successful full stack debugging lies in understanding how to track an issue through each layer of the stack and identifying common pitfalls that developers may encounter. Frontend Debugging: Tools and Techniques It isn't "Just Console.log" Frontend developers are often stereotyped as relying solely on Console.log for debugging. While this method is simple and effective for basic debugging tasks, it falls short when dealing with the complex challenges of modern web development. The complexity of frontend code has increased significantly, making advanced debugging tools not just useful, but necessary. Yet, despite the availability of powerful debugging tools, many developers continue to shy away from them, clinging to old habits. The Power of Developer Tools Modern web browsers come equipped with robust developer tools that offer a wide range of capabilities for debugging frontend issues. These tools, available in browsers like Chrome and Firefox, allow developers to inspect elements, view and edit HTML and CSS, monitor network activity, and much more. One of the most powerful, yet underutilized, features of these tools is the JavaScript debugger. The debugger allows developers to set breakpoints, step through code, and inspect the state of variables at different points in the execution. However, the complexity of frontend code, particularly when it has been obfuscated for performance reasons, can make debugging a challenging task. We can launch the browser tools on Firefox using this menu: On Chrome we can use this option: I prefer working with Firefox, I find their developer tools more convenient but both browsers have similar capabilities. Both have fantastic debuggers (as you can see with the Firefox debugger below), unfortunately many developers limit themselves to console printing instead of exploring this powerful tool. Tackling Code Obfuscation Code obfuscation is a common practice in frontend development, employed to protect proprietary code and reduce file sizes for better performance. However, obfuscation also makes the code difficult to read and debug. Fortunately, both Chrome and Firefox developer tools provide a feature to de-obfuscate code, making it more readable and easier to debug. By clicking the curly brackets button in the toolbar, developers can transform a single line of obfuscated code into a well-formed, debuggable file. Another important tool in the fight against obfuscation is the source map. Source maps are files that map obfuscated code back to its original source code, including comments. When generated and properly configured, source maps allow developers to debug the original code instead of the obfuscated version. In Chrome, this feature can be enabled by ensuring that "Enable JavaScript source maps" is checked in the developer tools settings. You can use code like this in the JavaScript file to point at the sourcemap file: //@sourceMappingURL=myfile.js.map For this to work in Chrome we need to ensure that "Enable JavaScript source maps" is checked in the settings. Last I checked it was on by default but it doesn't hurt to verify: Debugging Across Layers Isolating Issues Across the Stack In full stack development, issues often manifest in one layer but originate in another. For example, a frontend error might be caused by a misconfigured backend service or a database query that returns unexpected results. Isolating the root cause of these issues requires a methodical approach, starting from the symptom and working backward through the layers. A common strategy is to reproduce the issue in a controlled environment, such as a local development setup, where each layer of the stack can be tested individually. This helps to narrow down the potential sources of the problem. Once the issue has been isolated to a specific layer, developers can use the appropriate tools and techniques to diagnose and resolve it. The Importance of System-Level Debugging Full stack debugging is not limited to the application code. Often, issues arise from the surrounding environment, such as network configurations, third-party services, or hardware limitations. A classic example of this that we ran into a couple of years ago was a production problem where a WebSocket connection would frequently disconnect. After extensive debugging, Steve discovered that the issue was caused by the CDN provider (CloudFlare) timing out the WebSocket after two minutes—something that could only be identified by debugging the entire system, not just the application code. System-level debugging requires a broad understanding of how different components of the infrastructure interact with each other. It also involves using tools that can monitor and analyze the behavior of the system as a whole, such as network analyzers, logging frameworks, and performance monitoring tools. Embracing Complexity Full stack debugging is inherently complex, as it requires developers to navigate multiple layers of an application, often dealing with unfamiliar technologies and tools. However, this complexity also presents an opportunity for growth. By embracing the challenges of full stack debugging, developers can expand their knowledge and become more versatile in their roles. One of the key strengths of full stack development is the ability to collaborate with domain experts. When debugging an issue that spans multiple layers, it is important to leverage the expertise of colleagues who specialize in specific areas. This collaborative approach not only helps to resolve issues more efficiently but also fosters a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning within the team. As tools continue to evolve, so too do the tools and techniques available for debugging. Developers should strive to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in debugging tools and best practices. Whether it’s learning to use new features in browser developer tools or mastering system-level debugging techniques, continuous learning is essential for success in full stack development. Conclusion Full stack debugging is a critical skill for modern developers, we mistakenly think it requires deep understanding of both the application and its surrounding environment. I disagree... By mastering the tools and techniques discussed in this post/upcoming posts, developers can more effectively diagnose and resolve issues that span multiple layers of the stack. Whether you’re dealing with obfuscated frontend code, misconfigured backend services, or system-level issues, the key to successful debugging lies in a methodical, collaborative approach. You don't need to understand every part of the system, just the ability to eliminate the impossible. Full stack development is often likened to an intricate balancing act, where developers are expected to juggle multiple responsibilities across the frontend, backend, database, and beyond. As the definition of full stack development continues to evolve, so too does the approach to debugging. Full stack debugging is an essential skill for developers, as it involves tracking issues through multiple layers of an application, often navigating domains where one’s knowledge may only be cursory. In this blog post I aim to explore the nuances of full stack debugging, offering practical tips and insights for developers navigating the complex web of modern software development. Notice that this is an introductory post focusing mostly on the front end debugging aspects, in the following posts I will dig deeper into the less familiar capabilities in front end debugging. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mM8p2VrrEaE&embedable=true https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mM8p2VrrEaE&embedable=true As a side note, if you like the content of this and the other posts in this series check out my Debugging book that covers t his subject. If you have friends that are learning to code I'd appreciate a reference to my Java Basics book. If you want to get back to Java after a while check out my Java 8 to 21 book . Debugging book t Java Basics book. Java 8 to 21 book . Full Stack Development, A Shifting Definition The definition of full stack development is as fluid as the technology stacks themselves. Traditionally, full stack developers were defined as those who could work on both the frontend and backend of an application. However, as the industry evolves, this definition has expanded to include aspects of operations (OPS) and configuration. The modern full stack developer is expected to submit pull requests that cover all parts required to implement a feature—backend, database, frontend, and configuration. While this does not make them an expert in all these areas, it does require them to navigate across domains, often relying on domain experts for guidance. I've heard it said that full stack developers are: Jack of all trades, master of none. Jack of all trades, master of none. However, the full quote probably better represents the reality: Jack of all trades, master of none, but better than a master of one. Jack of all trades, master of none, but better than a master of one . but better than a master of one The Full Stack Debugging Approach Just as full stack development involves working across various domains, full stack debugging requires a similar approach. A symptom of a bug may manifest in the frontend, but its root cause could lie deep within the backend or database layers. Full stack debugging is about tracing these issues through the layers and isolating them as quickly as possible. This is no easy task, especially when dealing with complex systems where multiple layers interact in unexpected ways. The key to successful full stack debugging lies in understanding how to track an issue through each layer of the stack and identifying common pitfalls that developers may encounter. Frontend Debugging: Tools and Techniques It isn't "Just Console.log" Frontend developers are often stereotyped as relying solely on Console.log for debugging. While this method is simple and effective for basic debugging tasks, it falls short when dealing with the complex challenges of modern web development. The complexity of frontend code has increased significantly, making advanced debugging tools not just useful, but necessary. Yet, despite the availability of powerful debugging tools, many developers continue to shy away from them, clinging to old habits. Console.log The Power of Developer Tools Modern web browsers come equipped with robust developer tools that offer a wide range of capabilities for debugging frontend issues. These tools, available in browsers like Chrome and Firefox, allow developers to inspect elements, view and edit HTML and CSS, monitor network activity, and much more. One of the most powerful, yet underutilized, features of these tools is the JavaScript debugger. The debugger allows developers to set breakpoints, step through code, and inspect the state of variables at different points in the execution. However, the complexity of frontend code, particularly when it has been obfuscated for performance reasons, can make debugging a challenging task. We can launch the browser tools on Firefox using this menu: On Chrome we can use this option: I prefer working with Firefox, I find their developer tools more convenient but both browsers have similar capabilities. Both have fantastic debuggers (as you can see with the Firefox debugger below), unfortunately many developers limit themselves to console printing instead of exploring this powerful tool. Tackling Code Obfuscation Code obfuscation is a common practice in frontend development, employed to protect proprietary code and reduce file sizes for better performance. However, obfuscation also makes the code difficult to read and debug. Fortunately, both Chrome and Firefox developer tools provide a feature to de-obfuscate code, making it more readable and easier to debug. By clicking the curly brackets button in the toolbar, developers can transform a single line of obfuscated code into a well-formed, debuggable file. Another important tool in the fight against obfuscation is the source map. Source maps are files that map obfuscated code back to its original source code, including comments. When generated and properly configured, source maps allow developers to debug the original code instead of the obfuscated version. In Chrome, this feature can be enabled by ensuring that "Enable JavaScript source maps" is checked in the developer tools settings. You can use code like this in the JavaScript file to point at the sourcemap file: //@sourceMappingURL=myfile.js.map //@sourceMappingURL=myfile.js.map For this to work in Chrome we need to ensure that "Enable JavaScript source maps" is checked in the settings. Last I checked it was on by default but it doesn't hurt to verify: Debugging Across Layers Isolating Issues Across the Stack In full stack development, issues often manifest in one layer but originate in another. For example, a frontend error might be caused by a misconfigured backend service or a database query that returns unexpected results. Isolating the root cause of these issues requires a methodical approach, starting from the symptom and working backward through the layers. A common strategy is to reproduce the issue in a controlled environment, such as a local development setup, where each layer of the stack can be tested individually. This helps to narrow down the potential sources of the problem. Once the issue has been isolated to a specific layer, developers can use the appropriate tools and techniques to diagnose and resolve it. The Importance of System-Level Debugging Full stack debugging is not limited to the application code. Often, issues arise from the surrounding environment, such as network configurations, third-party services, or hardware limitations. A classic example of this that we ran into a couple of years ago was a production problem where a WebSocket connection would frequently disconnect. After extensive debugging, Steve discovered that the issue was caused by the CDN provider (CloudFlare) timing out the WebSocket after two minutes—something that could only be identified by debugging the entire system, not just the application code. Steve System-level debugging requires a broad understanding of how different components of the infrastructure interact with each other. It also involves using tools that can monitor and analyze the behavior of the system as a whole, such as network analyzers, logging frameworks, and performance monitoring tools. Embracing Complexity Full stack debugging is inherently complex, as it requires developers to navigate multiple layers of an application, often dealing with unfamiliar technologies and tools. However, this complexity also presents an opportunity for growth. By embracing the challenges of full stack debugging, developers can expand their knowledge and become more versatile in their roles. One of the key strengths of full stack development is the ability to collaborate with domain experts. When debugging an issue that spans multiple layers, it is important to leverage the expertise of colleagues who specialize in specific areas. This collaborative approach not only helps to resolve issues more efficiently but also fosters a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous learning within the team. As tools continue to evolve, so too do the tools and techniques available for debugging. Developers should strive to stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in debugging tools and best practices. Whether it’s learning to use new features in browser developer tools or mastering system-level debugging techniques, continuous learning is essential for success in full stack development. Conclusion Full stack debugging is a critical skill for modern developers, we mistakenly think it requires deep understanding of both the application and its surrounding environment. I disagree... By mastering the tools and techniques discussed in this post/upcoming posts, developers can more effectively diagnose and resolve issues that span multiple layers of the stack. Whether you’re dealing with obfuscated frontend code, misconfigured backend services, or system-level issues, the key to successful debugging lies in a methodical, collaborative approach. You don't need to understand every part of the system, just the ability to eliminate the impossible.

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