What is pair programming – and should you try it?

Pair programming, a collaborative software development technique where two programmers jointly tackle tasks, often enhances problem-solving, knowledge sharing, and code quality. It involves one "driver" who writes the code and a "navigator" who reviews and provides guidance, with roles frequently swapped to maintain engagement. This approach can be mentally demanding, so shorter, structured sessions are recommended. Creating a "safe space" is crucial, allowing team members to feel comfortable sharing ideas, which leads to improved teamwork and product quality. The article also touches on "mob programming," an extension involving the whole team, which can be particularly effective for distributed teams. Practical insights from a tech lead's experience demonstrate that pair programming fosters better collaboration and skill development, bridging knowledge gaps and preventing team silos. The success of pair programming depends on structured sessions, appropriate tool selection, and maintaining a positive team dynamic, with the flexibility to adapt processes to suit specific team needs.