Todd Coniam wrote:

> ...
> Three programmers working.
> First two huddled over cluttered desk busy staring at monitor,
> checking notes,
> acting apprehensive and distraught. Slightly disheveled clothing.
> Third [Ada programmer] at clean desk.  Calm, cool, collected.  Neatly
> dressed.
>
> Ada programmer turns off computer and gets up:
>   "Well, I guess you guys will be working late again!"
> First programmer responds:
>   "What, don't tell me your done!"
> Ada programmer respondes while leaving:
>   "Yes." [pause] "Good night."
>
> Second programmer asks first:
>   "What's his secret?"
> First programmer replies somewhat mournfully and/or jealously:
>   "He uses Ada."
> ...

This reminds me of an ad some of us brainstormed years ago going
something like
 - Your 3-year project is 70% done
 - Your customer just changed half of the requirements on you
 - And asked if you could deliver an early version
 - [And added quantitative quality-based acceptance criteria]

 - Aren't you glad you're using Ada!

      --hh

PS:  I "resent" the implied correlation between neatness of desk/dress
and liking Ada.  :-)