Newsletters

The Slow Decline of Highly Motivated Developers

June 04, 2023

In this issue, we explore the decline of developer motivation, leadership lessons from real experiences, and the importance of user signups. Plus, insights on problem-solving, software layering, and fostering a culture of listening.

What Actually Drives Productivity

May 28, 2023

In this issue, we explore the elusive nature of developer productivity, effective project planning, decision-making in software architecture, communication in diverse teams, and rethinking the role of meetings in a knowledge economy.

Dropbox Engineering Career Framework

May 21, 2023

This issue dives into Dropbox's Engineering Career Framework, explores the complexities of software evolution, and discusses effective technology decision-making. Plus, learn about distributed counter systems and the impact of technical debt.

Back of the Envelope

May 14, 2023

In this issue, explore effective strategies for leading remote software teams, managing technical backlogs, understanding tech layoffs, and LinkedIn's shift to a GraphQL architecture for product development.

Avoiding the Rewrite Trap

May 07, 2023

In this issue, we explore the challenges of legacy systems, share lessons from eBay's modernization journey, and provide insights on career transitions and pragmatic uptime strategies. Dive in for valuable perspectives.

A Fresh Perspective on Forecasting in Software Development

April 30, 2023

This issue delves into software forecasting, tackling bias and noise, strategies for managing tech lifecycles at Slack, and insights from SRE team structures. Plus, reflections on management mistakes and lessons from complex systems.

Lessons Learned From a Failed Microservice Architecture

April 23, 2023

In this issue, explore the pitfalls of over-engineering, the power of Pre-Mortems in project planning, and strategies to combat interruptions. Plus, discover insights on managing time and priorities effectively.

Implementers, Solvers, and Finders

April 16, 2023

In this issue, we explore the evolving landscape of programmer career paths, the importance of empathy in leadership, and how LinkedIn measures developer happiness. We also discuss AI's potential disruption and the Three R’s of enterprise security.

Be a thermostat, not a thermometer

April 09, 2023

This issue explores the nuances of workplace dynamics and adaptability. Learn how to be a positive influence, improve remote management, enhance hiring practices, and embrace failure for growth. Plus, discover strategies for accountability and adaptability in challenging situations.

Untangling Microservices

April 02, 2023

In this issue, we explore the evolving landscape of microservices, from Uber’s refactoring efforts to insights on staff developer roles at Shopify. Plus, learn how to navigate unpredictability and the critical importance of organizational design.

Numbers To Know For Managing

March 26, 2023

This issue explores essential management insights, from foundational anchors for effective leadership to building exceptional product engineering teams. Discover strategies for navigating complexity in tech and fostering high-performance environments.

Architects, Anti-Patterns, and Organizational Fuckery

March 19, 2023

This issue explores the challenges faced by architects in tech, the risks of reliance on SaaS, and strategies for improving PM-engineer relationships. We also discuss trust in organizations and influencing leadership effectively.

Want an unfair advantage in your tech career?

March 12, 2023

In this issue, enhance your tech career by learning about engineering onboarding, build vs. buy strategies, team health checks, low-latency microservices, and insights for new CTOs. Gain a competitive edge today.

6 Mistakes You Should Avoid In Your Tech Leadership Career

March 05, 2023

In this issue, explore essential insights for tech leaders: avoid common mistakes, understand culture viruses, and learn about engineering in M&A. Plus, discover architectural modernization and effective RFC strategies.

How to build a high-performing software team

February 26, 2023

In this issue, explore insights on building high-performing software teams, navigating experiences with outsourced development, and understanding the complexities of software architecture decisions. Join us for a live discussion on pain points and strategies.

Writing an engineering strategy

February 19, 2023

In this issue, we explore the essentials of crafting an engineering strategy, the importance of empathy in team dynamics, and navigating organizational change. Plus, discover insights into retrospectives and alternatives to performance reviews.

When do you code as a staff engineer?

February 12, 2023

This issue explores the coding responsibilities of staff engineers, the challenges of giving feedback, the pitfalls of backlogs, the importance of company culture, and strategies for investing in companies with competitive advantages.

Skills that make a big difference

February 05, 2023

In this issue, we explore the vital role of empathy in engineering, the importance of balanced architectural investments, and strategies for effective engineering management. Plus, insights on focus time and avoiding replatforming pitfalls.

Avoid Being an "Ivory Tower" Architect

January 29, 2023

This issue dives into the essential dynamics between architects and their organizations, explores innovative software development without estimates, and discusses authentic leadership and tech debt management. Discover insights for effective team communication and strategy.

Meetings for an effective eng organization

January 22, 2023

This issue explores the value of effective meetings, resilience in software teams, and the nuances of tech and product debt. Discover insights on software architecture documentation and the distinction between feature factories and value generators.