Between Two COO's with Michael Koenig

Prisma COO, Nitin Gupta, explains tech to my mom, operationalizing hackathons, the balance of commercializing open-source, planning, and a team psychologist

Sep 26, 2023

Nitin Gupta, COO of Prisma and a tech veteran with over 20 years in the industry, shares insights on making complex tech accessible to non-technical audiences. He introduces Prisma University, designed to boost internal knowledge and collaboration. The discussion dives into managing remote teams through hackathons and the unique role of a psychologist in preventing burnout. Nitin also addresses the delicate balance of open-source commercialization while nurturing a community, alongside his innovative approach to operational planning and alignment with KPIs.

45:03

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Episode guests

Nitin Gupta

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Nitin Gupta emphasizes the importance of breaking down technical concepts for non-technical team members to facilitate understanding and collaboration.

The introduction of a psychologist in Prisma's HR strategy highlights the company's commitment to employee wellbeing and preventing burnout through unique operational practices.

Deep dives

Understanding Prisma through Everyday Analogies

Prisma develops object-relational mapping (ORM) tools that simplify database interactions for developers by eliminating the need to switch languages. In a relatable analogy, the COO explained how an application like WhatsApp comprises various layers, and while developers often switch between coding languages to manage data, Prisma allows them to continue using their preferred programming language. This approach not only enhances productivity but also enables developers to change databases easily without incurring significant overhead. Additionally, Prisma's newer products, Accelerate and Pulse, aim to expand these benefits to managing content delivery networks and improving data interactions.

Intro

5min

Fostering Curiosity and Collaboration in Remote Teams

17min

Navigating Open Source and Commercial Growth

5min

Navigating International Operations and Regulations in Tech

2min

Harnessing Generative AI: Business Innovations and Team Alignment

12min

Navigating Remote Negotiations and Building Connections

4min

Unlock the secrets of remote team management and product explanation in our stimulating conversation with Nitin Gupta, the COO of Prisma. Nitin unveils how explaining technical products to non-technical people can be a challenge, but he makes it understandable, going as far as breaking down Prisma into simple terms for our mothers. Also, learn about Prisma University, a unique internal initiative to educate non-tech team members about their product's nuances.

Beyond product explanation, we venture into the world of remote hackathons and the operational challenges within. Nitin highlights anticipating potential issues within a remote team and the significance of aligning all-hands meetings with the organization's structure. More so, we explore Prisma's unique take on transparency and collaboration as they open-source their processes.

Finally, we delve into the less conventional aspects of managing a remote company. Nitin shares insights on why they hired a trained psychologist for HR and how it helps prevent employee burnout. He also unveils an interesting balance between commercializing open-source projects and maintaining a vibrant community through the 123 framework. Additionally, we discuss operational execution, aligning teams to KPIs, and Nitin’s unique approach to quarterly planning. This episode is a must-listen for tech enthusiasts and remote team managers looking for practical tips and fascinating insights.

(0:00:13) - Explaining Prisma and Building Knowledge Sharing

Nitin Gupta explains Prisma to his mother, Prisma University educates internally, and technical team members share knowledge.

(0:11:13) - Remote Hackathon and Organizational Structure Management

Nitin Gupta discusses hackathon operationalization, remote team issues, all hands meetings, organization structure, and open sourcing processes.

(0:18:40) - Psychologists and Open Source in Remote Companies

Nitin Gupta emphasizes HR with psychologist hire, uses 123 framework to balance open source project and community vibrancy.

(0:35:30) - Operational Execution and Alignment of KPIs

Nitin Gupta discusses aligning teams to KPIs, concentrating on company-wide objectives, quarterly planning, and negotiating with a mobile handset manufacturer.

Episode link: https://betweentwocoos.com/prisma-coo-nitin-gupta

Nitin Gupta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gniting

Michael Koenig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-koenig514/