The Pilgrim's Den - where it all happens

In my previous post I officially unleashed my plans to develop RoadRaceResults.com (still not described here, but I'll get to that).

I mentioned that one thing I accomplished was to set up The Pilgrim's Den, which is what I call my home office. I have always felt very strongly that the physical work environment is critical to productivity and success in software development. While employed in the past, I would take great care in setting up my workstation just the way I wanted it.
Here are some of the essentials:

• lots of whiteboards
• close to all team members that I am working with
• an environment that allows speaking back-and-forth (without being concerned about interupting other developers working on something else)
• a desktop computer where I can sit or stand to work
• a notebook computer to be able to move around
• a kitchen nearby

When working at home the criteria are slightly different:

• whiteboard space
• huge bulletin board for 'Big Visible Charts'
• music (CD player and great computer speakers)
• hands-free phone
• books, printers, files easily accessible

Working at home is a lifestyle decision and it must be fun. This isn't frivilous but I have found it critical for productivity.

Here are some pictures of 'where it all happens' for me.

The home office location up in the Great White North

The Pilgrim's Den- The Think! Inspiration Whiteboard

The Pilgrim's Den- The Big Visible Chart (WBS, Tasks and Schedule)