Previously we mentioned What is a Google Developer Expert and its importance supporting other developers, startups and companies to achieve a better development process through conferences and creating valuable content like tutorials, code samples or books.
As part of our interview with Adrián Catalán, we asked him important questions about being a Google Developer Expert and all that it represents:
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What is the Google Developer Expert Program?
The GDE program is a recognition that implies knowing about Google’s products, but also requires doing some work for other people to know about these technologies.
Google looks for developers with experience in relationships with other developers
who also have been evangelists. Companies offer tools for software developers to use and they rely on third parties interested in spreading this type of knowledge, specially to help entrepreneurs.
I´ve always been passionate about education and when I was told about this program it made sense to me to become part of it. I was already meeting the requirements like writing an Android App Development guide and working as a mentor.
The program has grown considerably and expanded to other areas such as Marketing, UX / UI and Product strategy.
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How did you become a GDE?
One way to become a GDE is to be nominated by a person who is currently part of the program. I have nominate a couple of developers who just got in and other five that are now in process. Some of them are not from my region, which I think it’s interesting.
You can also be referred by a Google employee who works in Developer Relations (DevRel). I am a member of the SpLATAM (Spanish Latin America) area and it was the contact from this region who nominated me to enter to the GDE program.
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What is the best part of being a GDE?
My favourite part is the impact my actions can have. Even though I am not a Google employee, being part of a Google program is very prestigious, so it has helped me finding job opportunities and getting in touch with more people.
You achieve this by creating quality content and by using a good channel. As a member I have relations with other experts from the world, I have given conferences and also have been mentor for startups projects.
It is truly fulfilling for me every time I hear people talking about how something I’ve done has helped them to achieve their personal goals.
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What are some of the advantages of developing for Android?
It depends on what you are using it for. Android for Work, for instance, allows you to encrypt data or take control of what you install in your devices.
But, beyond a matter of OS preference, what it attracted to me about Android at the beginning was the openness it provides for developers. Fragmentation is one of Android’s biggest problems but this is just a side effect of this openness, which I find valuable.
In order to start developing for Android you only need a computer and to install Android software. You just have to pay a single fee of $25 to publish your apps on Google Play.
In emerging markets, there are more options for Android mobile development than any other operating system, allowing markets to grow.
If you want to know more about GDE program make sure to check the official website. Maybe one day you’ll become part of this amazing group of developers!
