All the best engineering advice I stole from non-technical people (medium.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the importance of considering alternative perspectives and being open to feedback, with the author sharing personal anecdotes and insights gained from non-technical people. The discussion that follows explores various aspects of productivity, management, and teamwork in the context of engineering and software development. The article's content is not directly available, but the comments reveal a range of topics, including the challenges of measuring productivity, the dangers of focusing on a single metric, and the importance of effective communication. The conversation also touches on the role of distraction, the value of deep work, and the impact of technology on productivity and society.

Main themes

• productivity
• management
• teamwork
• communication
• distraction
• technology

What commenters say

• Measuring productivity by tracking time spent at a desk can be misleading and may not accurately reflect the value of work being done.
• Focusing on a single metric, such as 'Chicken Efficiency', can lead to unintended consequences and overlook important aspects of a project.
• The rise of technology and social media has led to increased distraction and decreased productivity, making it essential to find ways to minimize interruptions and stay focused.
• Some argue that the ability to work effectively in a team and communicate with others is more valuable than technical skills, while others believe that technical expertise is still essential for success.
• The concept of 'diffuse responsibility' can lead to a lack of accountability and decreased productivity, as individuals may assume that others will take care of tasks.
• Effective management involves finding a balance between giving team members autonomy and providing guidance and support, rather than relying solely on metrics or time tracking.
• The increasing complexity of modern projects and the need for coordination and communication can make it challenging to achieve goals and deliver results.
• Despite the challenges, some argue that it is still possible to achieve great things and make progress, even in the face of obstacles and distractions.