Judith Faulkner Quotes

Powerful Judith Faulkner for Daily Growth

About Judith Faulkner

Judith Faulkner (born May 19, 1946) is an influential American computer scientist, software engineer, entrepreneur, and educator who has made significant contributions to the field of information technology, particularly in the development of educational software and systems. Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Faulkner developed an early interest in computers while studying mathematics at the University of Michigan. After earning her undergraduate degree, she continued her studies at the University of Illinois, where she became involved with the creation of the Illiac IV computer system. In 1970, she joined the faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison as an assistant professor in the Department of Computer Sciences, and it was here that she began to focus on educational software and systems development. In the early 1980s, Faulkner co-founded the Computer Sciences Corporation's Educational Software division, where she led the development of the popular computer-assisted instruction system called the Wisconsin Integrated Library System (WILS). Later, in 1986, she established Blackboard Education Solutions (now known as Blackboard Inc.), which has grown to become a leading provider of educational technology and services used by millions of educators and students worldwide. Throughout her career, Faulkner has been a strong advocate for the use of technology in education and has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to the field. In 2014, she was named one of the top 10 women in IT by Forbes magazine. Her work continues to influence the development of educational technology and systems, and she remains an active figure in the tech industry as a speaker, author, and advisor.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The computer is a democratic device."

Judith Faulkner's quote, "The computer is a democratic device," suggests that computers have the potential to promote equality and fairness in access and opportunity. In a democratic society, everyone has an equal chance to participate and contribute, just as anyone with a computer can access information, communicate, and create content on the same platform without prejudice or limitation. The democratization of technology facilitates open exchange of ideas, fostering collaboration and innovation on a global scale.


"If you can't program, you probably shouldn't be in charge of a software company."

This quote suggests that having a deep understanding of programming is crucial for individuals who are leading a software company. The reasoning behind this is that programming is the foundation upon which software is built, and therefore, the leader should have a strong grasp of how the technology works to make informed decisions about the development and direction of their company's products or services. In other words, in order to effectively manage and grow a software company, one needs to be proficient in programming.


"Good software is hard to find because good programmers are hard to keep."

This quote highlights two key aspects in the realm of software development: 1. Good software (i.e., high-quality, efficient, and well-designed programs) are essential for successful tech operations. 2. Finding such software is challenging due to a scarcity of skilled, dedicated programmers capable of creating it consistently. In essence, the quote underscores the value of good programming talent in the industry and the ongoing challenge of retaining those individuals to maintain a steady supply of superior software solutions.


"Computer programming is like cooking: You have a recipe, but you have to adjust it to taste."

This quote suggests that computer programming, like cooking, requires a set of instructions or recipes (algorithms), but the real skill lies in the ability to adapt these instructions based on specific needs or contexts, much like adjusting a recipe to improve its flavor or efficiency. It implies that successful programming isn't just about following instructions blindly, but also about creativity, problem-solving, and the ability to think critically to find optimal solutions.


"The best way to predict the future is to invent it." (This quote is often attributed to Faulkner, but it was actually coined by Alan Kay.)

This quote emphasizes the power of creativity and innovation in shaping our future. Rather than passively expecting or predicting events, we can actively create and invent new possibilities. It's a call to action for individuals and society as a whole, encouraging us to proactively envision and build the future we desire through innovative thinking and problem-solving.


Health care organizations don't ask us to interface to every type of module because they understand that it could cause safety problems.

- Judith Faulkner

Health, Understand, Could, Interface

One of the things that made Epic strong when I wrote the original code was that it never occurred to me to do anything other than put the patient at the center. I developed a clinical system at a time when the health care world had pretty much only billing and lab systems available.

- Judith Faulkner

Strong, Other, Code, Epic

I get so many requests for interviews. If I talk to everyone, we can't do our job with our customers and work on our software. It would be hard to stay focused.

- Judith Faulkner

Work, Software, Everyone, Customers

I was an undergrad math major and a grad student in computer science. I'm hugely introverted, not atypical of math majors.

- Judith Faulkner

Student, Hugely, Introverted, Majors

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