Earlier I posted about the challenges and opportunities available to those willing to take on the multithreaded monster in the design of their applications. The way I see it, this opportunity is here, now, in the present and at multiple levels. The hardware is here and its market penetration is getting better each day. Given a project life cycle of between six months and a couple years the penetration will be even larger and the realized performance even better on the emerging hardware. You need to make threading a part of your design now.
Many have bemoaned the lack of multithreaded awareness in lots of mainstream apps. I look at it as a loss of opportunity by that vendor. Or rather, is it a knock on the door of their competitor? We all know that everyone is looking for an edge on the competition. With multi-core processors in such proliferation I look for software to soon be categorized as either threaded or non-threaded. So you’re browsing the software section of your favorite geek store/site looking for a video editing package, development tool, strategy game, etc. Some say they’re threaded, some do not. Which would you buy? I’m betting it might even sway a brand loyal consumer to the other product. Those that are threaded will have the big wins while those that are not will lose market share. Honestly, can you afford not to have your app threaded?
One level of this opportunity that is immediately apparent is that you can thread your existing apps. Another level is to make sure threading is represented in your future product designs. I know, easier said than done. But almost every shop/project has a training budget, right? So put it to use; I would wager there aren’t many better uses for those dollars right now. Look at it another way… just like 32-bit meant a retooling of many applications and crept into software designs, so too will threading. Other opportunities exist on an individual level. Obviously with lots of software projects seeking to remain competitive and/or performant there is a demand for those with demonstrable skills in threading applications. I see many tech job sites already advertising for these talents. Hit some seminars and read, read, read.
Today the hardware is definitely ahead of the software but in my opinion it won’t stay this way for long. Vendors will innovate and opportunities will be realized. Those that don’t will have missed the boat.
Jason Shigley
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