Optimize for What You Can Do: A Coder's Guide to Customization and Inclusivity

Introduction: Crafting an Efficient Coding Symphony

In the realm of software development, efficiency is not just about speed; it's about creating an environment that echoes our individual needs and breaks down barriers to innovation. My own journey from a coder with a love for music to a champion of inclusivity in technology has been underpinned by this very principle: optimizing for what I can do, not for what others expect.

My path has been unconventional, marked by a transition from game/web development to DJing, to digital audio engineering, and now to a PhD focusing on audio AI and ASR for dysarthria. Each step has been guided by a commitment to creating spaces and tools that are accessible to all, reflecting a belief in the transformative power of technology.

The Genesis of My Setup

The keyboard is the coder's instrument, and in my case, it needed to be more than just functional—it had to be intuitive and inclusive. My custom keyboard layout, which I call the "QWERTY Functional," is designed to cater to my left-hand dominance due to my unique abilities. While the image may suggest a grid, my actual keyboard is staggered, matching the natural finger reach and enhancing typing comfort and speed. This layout is my statement in the need for inclusivity in the tools we use.

Tailoring for Strength: The "QWERTY Functional"

The "QWERTY Functional" is a deliberate composition that plays to the strengths of my left hand, allowing me to perform the majority of typing actions with the hand that operates most effectively. The strategic distribution of keys means less cross-hand movement, which translates to quicker, more fluid coding sessions and reduces the physical toll on my right hand. This keyboard layout is a testament to the philosophy of inclusive design, a system that caters to individual user needs without compromise.

Redefining Ability: The Construct of Disability

The term 'disability' implies limitation, but my journey has taught me to see it as a different set of abilities. This perspective has been the source of my greatest innovations, leading me to customize my tools and approach problems with fresh eyes. Embracing our differences and unique strengths is not just beneficial; it's necessary for innovation and growth.

Living Up to Your Own Standards

In a world that often measures success with a universal yardstick, setting personal benchmarks for success that align with my capabilities and values has been an act of courage and self-awareness. It has allowed me to prioritize my own expectations over societal ones, motivating me to innovate and redefine what's possible.

Conclusion: The Symphony of Self-Optimization

As we conclude, it's clear that optimization is a deeply personal symphony composed of our individual abilities, passions, and the unique ways we interact with the world. It is an ongoing pursuit that challenges us to refine our tools, our environments, and ourselves. As I continue my journey through the realms of audio AI and beyond, my commitment to this philosophy remains steadfast, and I invite you to join me in this endeavor—to optimize, to redefine, and to live up to your own extraordinary standards.