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Work Environment for Game Developers Must Change
Christopher Reimer writes "C|Net is reporting from the GDC that the video game industry will have to improve its work environment as the working population gets older and unionization becomes an issue. From the article: 'Numerous studies have shown that developers and other workers putting in 12-hour days routinely make more mistakes as the midnight oil burns, said Francois Dominic Laramee, a freelance game developer and author. That means any extra productivity is eaten up by hits to product quality. "If your company is in crunch mode, drunken zombies may be checking your code right now," he said.'"
Check back on this page around 2am. Better make it 3.
It used to be that construction workers did 12+ hours shift, worked in unhealthy conditions, crunched to finish on time, etc. building skyscrapers. But then one of the construction companies realized it was cheaper to hire a larger work force and have a safe workplace than to pay for repairs and death/disability. That company flourished and several other companies followed before legislation and unions forced the rest to comply.
What's the difference between them and us? Well, the game companies obviously don't mind putting out crap products, so they don't have to redo the work, so we need to get them on death&disability.
While I doubt anyone would be willing to work themselves to death, try going crazy if your insurance covers it:) Stress disorders, carpal tunnel, narcolepsy. Have fun with it!