Ron is Metova’s newest lead developer. He joined us as a developer in 2012 and immediately began proving himself as an energetic, highly adaptive engineering professional and a valuable asset to our team. We promoted Ron to lead developer early this year.
He hails from Alabama, is a graduate of Auburn University and has been working as a Java engineer since 2005. We recently sat down with Ron to ask him a few questions about his background, working with Metova and the mobile industry.
Tell us what you do here at Metova?
Android development, process oversight, technical support for sales and R&D into new tools.
How would you say that working with Metova is different from other development firms?
Metova uses tools and processes that help developers get their work done, instead of getting in their way. The company is flexible about trying new things if something has a chance to help productivity or make lives easier. Each day I work with a ton of really, really sharp people who adapt to changes significantly faster than any other place I’ve worked.
What’s one feature that you feel is essential to a great mobile app?
User experience. If an app is perfectly functional but ugly and difficult to use, it won’t last long. Asking yourself continually how well one of your parents would understand the app is a great way to keep your mind on the user experience.
What’s one piece of advice you’d tell a young developer looking to get into the mobile app industry?
Look at open-source projects. Read their code. This will let you see more complex examples and get an idea for industry conventions.
What technological advancement/shift should app developers pay attention to this year?
Wearable technology is about to explode. We’re already starting to see smart watches and smart glasses, and I think some really interesting things are going to evolve out of the efforts going into technologies that aren’t all rectangular and handheld.
What’s your favorite app?
I think Google Sky Map is just so cool.
Favorite hobbies?
I play with a talented and wacky percussion group, run several times a week and bowl regularly.
Most prized possession?
My dad’s Ludwig drum set circa 1964.
What would you like to cross off you “bucket list” next?
I’m hoping to run a half marathon later this year.
