Beautiful Code - Typography and Visual Programming

Explore the evolution and potential future of code presentation in this thought-provoking conference talk. Delve into the history of code typography, from the introduction of Courier typeface to modern syntax highlighting. Examine how layout and typography principles can enhance code readability and aesthetics. Investigate the disruptive potential of visual programming and its impact on code comprehension. Consider why programming tools seem to lag behind in visual design compared to other text-based media. Reflect on Donald Knuth's assertion that programs are primarily meant for human readers. Discover innovative approaches to code visualization, including themed layouts for game source code and the potential role of designers in creating visually appealing code representations. Contemplate the future of programming, including the possibility of moving beyond text-based code files.

Intro
How to write maintainable code on-site company training
'programmers spend around 60-70% of their entire programming time reading code
For Windows 3.1, Courier was redrawn as Courier New for low-resolution rendering
coding monitor for long classes!
Game source code needs themed layout & typography
We no longer need fixed-width typefaces now that we have high-res monitors
Every development team should have a designer to make AO code posters with beautiful layout and typography
Code could have better type and visual design, but reality is moving in a different direction
'I'm totally confident that in 40 years we won't be writing code in text files.' Bret Victor
Visual programming: Scratch & BPMN
Innovations such as visual programming belong to people who don't call themselves 'programmers
Instead, worry about ASCII text files being