My Bill of Rights as a Programmer

I have seen many lists of requirements programmers wish to obtain before they start the job.  I am no different for my company.  I have my own requirements before I start a new job and I wish to create a dynamic list of my rights as a programmer.

1. Every Programmer shall have a quiet working environment.
   • This is essential in order to think.  If the employer cannot provide a quiet working environment, see Bill of Rights #2.
2. Every Programmer shall have the right to listen to music.
   • The essential need for a quiet working environment or to be able just throw on music to down out the background noise is essential.  We as programmers work on brain power so therefore we as programmers need to concentrate.
3. Every Programmer shall have a fast PC.
   • Developers are required to run a lot of software that requires tons of memory and speed to get the job done faster.  The Fast PC only ensures that the programmer is able to research on the Internet while developing code and upgrading the database all at the same time while keeping up on the essential work email.
4. Every Programmer has their choice of both Keyboard and Mouse.
   • The mouse and keyboard will only allow them to develop faster and become skilled at both shortcut keys and mouse techniques.
5. Every Programmer shall have a fast Internet connection.
   • This is the mother of them all.  The ability to research faster is required for faster development.
6. Every Programmer shall have two or more monitors.
   • The research done on having two monitors (here, here, here and here) far outweighs the time spent on only having one.  So even before I get offered a job, one of my first questions is will I have at least two monitors?
7. Every Programmer shall have a high back comfortable chair.
   • This is another question I ask before going any farther with interviewing.  It not only makes the developer happier, but it helps with poster and is good for the body.
8. Every programmer shall have access to the right tools.
   • Would you rather develop in FoxPro or Visual Studio?  Would you rather develop on Dreamweaver that Visual Studio for .net Development?  Would you rather use SQL management 2000 or use SQL Management 2005?  IT is a requirement that the company be up to date on software development.
9. Every programmer shall have the right to have admin access on the PC.
   • There is no need for a programmer to be in restrictions of IT experience because most programmers have more experience with PC's than most IT folks.
10. Every programmer shall be allowed to attend a developers conference once a year.
    • If companies are willing to pay 60k-100k a year for programmers, they can fork over the other 2k needed for the conference.

All things listed here are the basic needs of a programmer.  They are the movers and shakers that make companies faster with both commerce and day to day operations.  Companies are expected to follow most of the these requirements.  If you are not getting the rights you deserve, ask for more or find another place to work.