By Dirk Ras, Architect at Dariel Software
lycanthrope, commonly known as a werewolf, is a creature found in folklore and mythology that can transform from a human into a wolf. This transformation takes on the form of a human/wolf hybrid during the full moon. Werewolves are known for their supernatural abilities, as well as their violent behaviour and predatory nature. The most common way of killing a werewolf is by using a silver weapon, like a dagger, sword, or, in modern times, a bullet. The idea is that silver has mystical properties that can harm or kill supernatural creatures, like werewolves. So, in effect, a silver bullet is a simple and effective way to quickly and permanently solve the problem of having a violent beast terrorising you.
Like in folklore, businesses have scary and monstrous beasts living in their basements. The terror of a tech estate. And, just like in folklore, business leaders are constantly seeking a simple, quick and 100% effective solution for a complex and often seemingly insurmountable problem. The 1986 essay by Fred Brooks discusses this topic, yet the concept still persists almost four decades later.
Looking at the 2000s up until 2024, here are a few of the shiniest silver bullets: