Plain Text

Explore the hidden complexities of "plain text" in software development through this engaging conference talk from NDC Oslo 2021. Delve into the world of text files, uncovering the numerous assumptions and potential pitfalls that lie beneath seemingly simple concepts. Learn about the historical context of mechanical teletypes, various encoding systems, collations, and code pages. Discover how these underlying complexities can lead to bizarre bugs and unexpected behavior in software applications. Gain valuable insights into best practices for working with text files and understand the cultural and linguistic implications of text-based systems. Unravel the mystery behind the phrase "pike matchbox" and its connection to driving in Belarus. This thought-provoking presentation challenges common perceptions about plain text and provides a deeper understanding of its role in modern software development.