https://arxiv.org/abs/2404.10002

Abstract (emphasis mine):

The concept of a ‘Ballmer Peak’ was first proposed in 2007, postulating that there exists a very specific blood alcohol content which confers superhuman programming ability. More generally, there is a commonly held belief among software engineers that coding is easier and more productive after a few drinks. Using the industry standard for assessment of coding ability, we conducted a search for such a peak and more generally investigated the effect of different amounts of alcohol on performance. We conclusively refute the existence of a specific peak with large magnitude, but with p < 0.001 find that there was a significant positive effect to a low amount of alcohol - slightly less than two drinks - on programming ability.

  • Ms. ArmoredThirteen
    link
    fedilink
    English
    57 months ago

    The Unity office in Bellevue used to have beer on tap in the cafeteria. Idk if it still does what with all the fuckery going on… Maybe one day I’ll actually go into the office and I can report back

    • AwkwardLookMonkeyPuppet
      link
      English
      37 months ago

      If you walk around Microsoft’s office buildings, you’ll see several people’s personal offices with full bars in them.

      • Ms. ArmoredThirteen
        link
        fedilink
        English
        17 months ago

        I don’t understand? It seemed like a fun and relevant tidbit to me. Also there is no bragging about working for Unity anymore the place is a disaster