Tips for communicating with non-programmers

Question

I am a PHP / MySQL developer. Our database contents contain an excel file created by a group for non-programmers. They are smart people, but often they don’t see how small changes in the excel file can completely make the logic in my PHP codes pointless. Does anyone have any tips for talking to non-programmers in these scenarios?

Answer 1

When I explain such things to non-programmers, I usually tell them that the computer cannot understand, that I am not SPECIAL about it. Ask them how you write a program to get gas for the car. When they answer, explain the details that they probably missed (for example, how to get keys from your pocket, and how to take steps, etc.).

Answer 2

Provide them with the template that you require. If they are used to asking before making any changes, they may either stop making changes or find out which things are OK and which aren't.

Answer 3

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Answer 5

Have you considered using password protection and macros to fix changes that cause problems?