Radek Tetík Programmer Initiates ‘Ctrl+X’ to Industry Clichés

Have you been with MyQ since the beginning?

Yes, together with Martin Januš, Kuba Ahmadyar, and Petr Hacmac; then more were rallied.

What is your main role?

I developed software for MyQ, Kuba took care of the hardware. I graduated from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering at the Czech Technical University. My studies were computer-oriented and I was destined to do so.

Are you a typical joker? Somehow you don’t fit the classic computer geek profile; you don't have a strained gaze, disheveled hair, or sandals on your feet. You don’t seem antisocial at all.

I am a joker about half the time. Other times I see myself as a nerd, but not drastically.

How does the idea of new software actually come about?

With the vision, Martin came from an environment where they wanted to offer clients added value to copiers and multifunctional devices. And because Martin is also a programmer, we knew how to do it. We wanted to do it better than the competition.

Do you mind facing problems?

No. On the contrary, I enjoy solving them through software; always keen on finding a way. It is best to have direct contact with a customer who will tell you what they need specifically. And the biggest reward is when they’re satisfied with your solution. Feedback is extremely important to me. It motivates me a lot. I am pleased to see that the result of my work will satisfy someone. Consequently, as the company grows, that direct contact doesn’t happen often, but somemtimes occurs.

Perhaps the difference was developing software in the garage and now you do it in a modern office with a significantly larger team.

The difference is huge. In fact, it’s more difficult to work in a team where 10 programmers work on the same problem. It’s a completely different dimension of complexity. Tasks must be recorded, explained, checked; communication needs slow you down, but on the other hand, teamwork allows you to do more.

Do you have time for any hobbies?

I work quite a lot, but I’ve started creating more room for them. I enjoy reading things related to my field. Generally, I’m also interested in psychology, philosophy, esotericism, Buddhism, and am trying to meditate. I try to keep active, through walking, running, riding bikes, or skating. Now, I’ve started yoga and I hope it will last.

Aren’t you tempted to run off to an Asian ashram for a long time?

Not exactly. I know people who have been enchanted by it and then became enveloped completely in practicing meditation, but overall, I like to travel. I might go sometime in the future. I am devoted to my family. My children like to play computer games, like I did when I was programming them in college.

Can you be without a computer for a day?

I was recently on vacation and stayed away from a computer for 14 days, because if I opened it, the engine in my head would start immediately. I tried to read literature that wasn’t related to work and my field, but I admit that over time, I had felt the desire to create something again; my fingers were itching.