Meaning: This quote, attributed to Rasmus Lerdorf, the creator of the PHP programming language, reflects a sentiment that is particularly relevant in the world of technology and web development. At its core, the quote seems to convey the idea that adherence to standards becomes important only when the world at large has embraced and adopted those standards. In other words, the quote suggests that standards are not inherently valuable or worthy of attention until they are widely recognized and utilized.

Rasmus Lerdorf is a software engineer and programmer known for creating PHP, a popular scripting language used for web development. His work and contributions to the field of technology have had a significant impact on web development and programming, making his views on standards and their relevance particularly noteworthy.

In the context of web development and programming, adherence to standards is crucial for ensuring compatibility, accessibility, and uniformity across different platforms and devices. Standards such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript specifications are essential for creating websites and web applications that function reliably and consistently across various browsers and devices. Additionally, adherence to coding standards and best practices can improve the maintainability and scalability of software projects.

However, the quote by Rasmus Lerdorf challenges the notion of prioritizing standards adherence in a world that may not yet fully recognize or implement those standards. It raises the question of whether strict adherence to standards should be a primary concern for developers if the wider world has not yet adopted those standards.

One interpretation of this quote is that Lerdorf may be emphasizing the practicality and real-world relevance of standards. In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, where new frameworks, languages, and tools are constantly emerging, the quote may reflect a pragmatic approach to prioritizing efforts and resources. It suggests that rather than focusing solely on adhering to standards that may not be widely accepted or implemented, it may be more beneficial to direct attention towards solutions and technologies that have tangible and immediate impact.

Furthermore, the quote may also highlight the tension between innovation and standardization. In the world of technology, there is often a balance to be struck between pushing the boundaries of what is possible with new ideas and technologies, and conforming to established standards for the sake of compatibility and interoperability. Lerdorf's quote may be seen as a reflection of the mindset of a technologist who prioritizes practicality and real-world impact over rigid adherence to standards that may not yet be widely adopted.

In conclusion, Rasmus Lerdorf's quote carries significant implications for the field of technology and web development. It challenges the conventional wisdom surrounding the importance of standards and prompts a reconsideration of when and how standards should be prioritized. Whether interpreted as a pragmatic stance on prioritizing real-world impact or as a commentary on the tension between innovation and standardization, the quote invites reflection on the dynamic and evolving nature of technology and the standards that govern it.