The Importance of Fun in the Workplace

Explore the importance of fun in the workplace through this insightful conference talk by Holly Cummins at YOW! 2022. Delve into the intersection of psychology, philosophy, and computer science to understand why programming is often considered an art despite its logical foundations. Discover practical tips for rediscovering the joy of coding, from understanding the rush of passing tests to implementing gamification techniques. Learn about the value of fun in fostering creativity, productivity, and psychological safety in software development environments. Examine the balance between enjoyment and professionalism, and understand the role of fast feedback, TDD, and even Easter eggs in creating a more engaging work atmosphere. Gain valuable insights on how to cultivate a positive workplace culture that enhances both employee satisfaction and overall productivity in the field of software engineering.

Intro
Funniest jok in Belgium
Let's talk about your career
What is fun?
Programming is fun
Why are most of our workplaces not fun?
The value of fun in the workplace
Limits to fun
Balance
Psychological safety
How to achieve fun
TDD
Fast feedback matters
Gamification
Employees are not stupid
Easter eggs
Failing at fun
Summary
Outro