It’s not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works. –Steve Jobs

You think it’s a conspiracy by the networks to put bad shows on TV. But the shows are bad because that’s what people want. It’s not like Windows users don’t have any power. I think they are happy with Windows, and that’s an incredibly depressing thought. – Steve Jobs on “suck”

I got around to emailing some pre-interview questions to a job candidate today, something I’ve been meaning to do for a few years now. And while a simple questionnaire has limited value, I was able to dive into a few of his responses and learn the basics about him quickly.

In my limited sample so far, it’s far more useful than phone screening: it fills in holes in a resumé, uncovers basic preferences and dispositions, and proves if the candidate can write coherently.¹ I’ll have to try this on a few more people, and see if it’s as useful for other personality types.

By the way, if you’re an über-talented PHP developer looking for work around Vancouver, B.C, send me your resumé, CV, or a link to your portfolio site.

1. Or convince someone to write on their behalf ↩

It’s really hard to design products by focus groups. A lot of times, people don’t know what they want until you show it to them. – Steve Jobs

Gnome HOWTO: Sending notification balloons from scripts, used for popping up subtle messages from cron jobs and such.

A 37Signals voice blogs about Steve Job’s blunt views on the Zune.

Another reason why the Wikipedia is great. It has a full listing of Homer Simpson’s jobs over the years. Pure gold!

Gates, Jobs, & the Zen aesthetic, contrasting the presentation styles of the two industry icons.