The story of a truly great IBMer named Frederick P. Brooks who passed away recently is an inspiring one.

Dr. Brooks’ life shows that greatness in a field cannot come from specializing alone but with a broad grasp on reality and an acquaintance with the traditions of the past. In his classic The Mythical Man-Month, we find him quoting the likes of Shakespeare and Sophocles to highlight wisdom that is very relevant for the technology world even today.

He is known to have said that computer scientists are mainly tool builders to help others do their jobs better. A good reminder for consultants and engineers helping clients in various industries.