Culture Archives - unblocked.engineering

Selling DevEx Initiatives in Purpose vs. Profit-oriented Companies

October 21, 2023

The article looks at how companies, based on their main focus (either profit or purpose), approach Developer Experience (DevEx). It discusses the challenges and strategies of introducing DevEx initiatives in different company settings. The piece also highlights the importance of understanding a company’s stage and priorities when discussing DevEx. It’s a reflection on the balance between purpose and profit in the tech world.

Why We Need to Stop Measuring (Developer) Productivity — Part 2

September 23, 2023

Measuring developer productivity is a flawed endeavor; it often replaces uncertain realities with misleading certainties. While metrics can offer insights, they cannot directly quantify productivity. Instead of seeking elusive measures, focus on understanding and eliminating barriers to engineers’ best work. After all, nurturing an environment for outstanding work is a more valid approach to enhancing productivity.

Why We Need to Stop Measuring (Developer) Productivity — Part 1

September 16, 2023

Productivity metrics, once useful for traditional businesses, are now outdated, especially for developers. Relying on these numbers can harm businesses. Metrics can be misleading, causing negative practices. We need to prioritize trust and communication over mere numbers. This article urges a rethinking of our approach to productivity.

Company Culture determines Product Quality

September 9, 2023

Explore the link between company culture and product quality. Learn how effective communication and organizational flexibility contribute to meeting customer expectations and improving products.

Measuring Developer Experience – A Balanced Approach

August 5, 2023

Unlocking the nuances of Developer Experience (DevEx) can feel like trying to measure the immeasurable. This article delves into a balanced approach, capturing a comprehensive view of DevEx using surveys, eNPS, retrospectives, metrics, turnover rates, feedback channels, and 1-on-1s.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs — DevEx Edition

July 8, 2023

This article applies Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs to developer experience (DevEx), emphasizing prioritizing developers’ basic needs like psychological safety before higher needs like challenging work. It presents a tailored Maslow’s pyramid for developers and underscores the impact of superior DevEx on productivity and business success.

From Conflict to Collaboration in Engineering Teams

July 1, 2023

Conflict, when managed correctly, can spur innovation and strengthen team cohesion, fostering a healthier, more productive engineering culture. This article explores the transformation of conflicts into powerful catalysts for collaboration and innovation within engineering teams. It provides practical tips on embracing a positive view of conflict, improving communication, reframing conflicts as collaborative problem-solving exercises, promoting empathy, sharing responsibility in conflict resolution, and celebrating successful conflict resolution.

How to Measure Developer Experience: The Danger of Metrics

June 24, 2023

In the data-driven decision-making world, quantifying developer experience and productivity can be a challenging feat. This article illuminates the possible pitfalls when solely relying on hard metrics to gauge developer productivity. It draws attention to the importance of considering qualitative factors such as job satisfaction and team morale and how an unhealthy fixation with numbers can lead to misleading interpretations. Moreover, the article suggests how to include these seemingly ‘immeasurable’ elements into the evaluation mechanism to attain a more comprehensive understanding of the team’s performance.

Developer Experience at Risk: Red Flags for Engineering Leaders

June 17, 2023

In an environment where Developer Experience is the pivotal determinant of productivity, engagement, and job satisfaction, its neglect can derail even the most ambitious projects. This article highlights essential alarm signals of a declining developer experience, drawing from real-world examples and seasoned insights. It underlines key strategies and coping mechanisms that could indicate looming issues, from job crafting and risk-taking to burnout and resignation. Leaders must heed these signs to prevent their teams from slipping into a state of low motivation and productivity.

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