Will King, a design engineer at Crunchy Data, and John Nunemaker, a seasoned software developer, dive into the intricacies of shipping reliable software. They discuss the vital role of collaboration and support in effective design. The duo emphasizes the evolving challenges of defining a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and the need for iterative development. They also highlight the importance of fostering a culture of action, balancing rapid execution with quality assurance through strategies like feature flags and real-time customer feedback.
The unexpected joy of engaging with new activities, like falconry, showcases the importance of being open to experiences outside our comfort zones.
Fostering a culture of agility and iterative feedback in software development enhances team performance and customer satisfaction through continuous improvement.
Deep dives
The Excitement of Falconry
Falconry has become an unexpected yet memorable experience for one of the speakers after participating in a session at a vacation spot. Initially indifferent, the participant was drawn in by their spouse's enthusiasm and soon found joy in holding a falcon that landed on their arm to eat a piece of meat. This hands-on interaction not only ranked as a top animal experience but also highlighted the unique charm of falconry as an engaging activity for enthusiasts. The discussion emphasizes the delightful surprises that come from trying new things, particularly activities involving animals.
Community and Sports Traditions
The conversation touches on the deep-rooted traditions and energetic atmospheres at college football games, particularly the role of eagles in stadium celebrations. This visual spectacle captivates attendees, as the eagle flies above the crowd and lands dramatically on the field. Such traditions foster community spirit and collective experiences, enhancing the game's entertainment value. The speakers reflect on how these niche elements create a shared sense of excitement that resonates with fans in attendance.
The Importance of Agile Working in Development
The dialogue shifts to the significance of maintaining agility and speed in software development, especially within their respective companies. They discuss how the cultural approach to shipping – prioritizing actions over extensive planning – can foster a more experimental and less fearful environment for engineers. This focus on iteration allows teams to quickly adapt features based on real user feedback, rather than adhering strictly to perfectionism from the start. Emphasizing the balance between quick deployment and quality, the speakers advocate for a culture that encourages action and embraces learning from mistakes.
Learning from Customer Feedback
The speakers agree that shipping products necessitates a structure that embraces customer feedback for ongoing improvement. By encouraging engineers to pilot projects and iteratively adapt based on engagement and usability, they can avoid misdirected efforts. Deliberate collection of user concerns can act as a springboard for beneficial adjustments while enhancing customer relations. This approach also helps teams avoid the pitfalls of working in isolation, underscoring the importance of keeping communication lines open with users throughout the development process.