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| Allan Hudgins |
I�ve been a software developer for a decade or so, having previously worked on satellite communication systems and emergency notification systems. On the concept team, I have been making use of new �real-time� web technologies that make it possible to have near-instant, bi-directional communications between a web browser and a QNX-based device, over the Internet.
What do you like best about being on the concept team?
It�s a refreshing change from developing production software. The pressure and deadlines are still there, but it�s much easier to focus on coming up with the right ideas and executing on them than it sometimes is under a production-oriented process. I like how much control I have over the design of the solutions I contribute to the team�s projects. There are no mandates beyond getting things done, getting them done well, and getting them done quickly. Well, and have fun doing it!
Has there been a standout moment for you while working on the team?
On my first day at QNX I discovered that a developer had ported Node.js, a real-time web technology, to the QNX OS. I knew I could do some interesting things with Node.js, and within the next two weeks, I was able to create a demo that got everyone excited. I remember Mark Rigley telling me, �Wow, you don�t know what you�ve done!� That was pretty cool � eased the �new guy� jitters for sure.
What is your biggest challenge right now? What keeps you up at night?
I�m usually thinking about how to solve the next problem � right now, it�s a feature for the technology concept car at CES. Creating scalable architectures is part of it, which is an interesting challenge when you�re leveraging a lot of very new technologies. Things don�t always work like it says on the back of the box.
What is your dream car?
Growing up, I always wanted a mini-van like my father. Now, with two kids, I�m afraid that wish might actually come true. I�ve driven the Porsche concept car � I�d like one of those. Please.
Anything particular you�re excited about right now?
The new concept car, of course! It�s beautiful, and it will be cool to see when it�s finished. Generally, though, I like the idea of a car pushing data to the cloud and the user being able to see that data in a meaningful way. For instance, by getting data gathered from other cars, the driver could see if there was a faster way to commute to work, and how long it would take. I think that�s not too far off.
Who would you like to see seated in a QNX technology concept car or reference vehicle?
I�d like to see my 15 month old in the passenger seat, but I don�t know what he�d do � play with the windows, maybe!