Who are the people behind the technology that we love so much? We know the products, the websites, the online personalities but we want to learn more!Â
Every week here at MyMac.com, we will spotlight a company, developer or person that supports Apple users by creating solutions or entertainment for the Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and other platforms we all use and love by asking them to answer seven questions.
This week, we turn our attention to Pierre Bernard from Houdah Software
1 – How did you get your start in technology?
I was 10 years old when we got our first family computer: an original Macintosh. I was immediately drawn to the machine. The first real use I found it was drawing. Later, I used Macs for my homework. Soon, I wanted to do more than just use existing applications. My first programming experience was with BASIC. Years later, HyperCard presented the opportunity to program tools that I actually needed. In hindsight, it seems my course towards studying computer science was set pretty early.
2 – What is your favorite computer of all time?
The one I really fell in love with head over heels was the original Mac 128k. The one I am getting most use of is my current MacBook Pro 15†Retina. It is the perfect laptop. I hardly ever sit at the desk to work. However, I still find myself longing for the high-res anti-glare display of the previous generation of MacBook Pro.
3 – Tell us about your latest product
My latest major release is HoudahGeo 5.0: a photo geotagging tool. With HoudahGeo you can link photos to the location where they were taken. I enjoy traveling and take a lot of photos. Both as souvenirs and to improve my photography skills. Through geocoding, I can see (and show) the context where the photo was taken. The most fascinating experience was a Safari in Kenya. At the end of the day, I was able to retrace the route our driver had taken and find the exact spot where we saw and photographed a leopard. I also rely on geotags to help me find older photos: I remember where I have been, but never know exactly when I was there.
4 – What was your first job?
My first real job was at Xerox Research Center Europe (XRCE) in Grenoble, France. For my end-of-studies project I worked as an intern at XRCE. After earning my engineering degree, I stayed on as research engineer. I had a blast working with the most brilliant people in an environment that encouraged creativity.
5 – What advise would you give to younger people just getting into technology?
Get into technology because you are passionate about it. The easiest way to excel, is to do something you really care for. Software development is a passion.
6 – Who was your inspiration?Â
My father. We used to build and fix all sorts of things at home. This got me into trying to understand how things work. Which lead to a lot of tinkering and troubleshooting computers. Handicrafts and software development are much alike: you get to build stuff, you sometimes need creative solutions to work with what is available and you often hit your own finger on the first try.Â
7 – Where can people follow you online, and what is your website?
The web site for Houdah Software has product information. There is also a blog with tips & tricks for Mac OS X and Houdah products. Follow Houdah Software on Twitter: @houdah or LinkedInÂ
My personal web site has not been updated in ages. I really should tend to that. Or take it offline. Some day. Follow me on LinkedIn.
Get into technology because you are passionate about it. The easiest way to excel is to do something you really care for. Software development is a passion. You can go a long way in this passion. See Nonprofit software as an example.
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