Using Metrics and Frameworks to Advocate for Technical Productivity

Metrics like Dora metrics are beneficial for organizations where software delivery capabilities are the bottleneck, but may not be useful for all teams. To determine the appropriate metrics, it is important to identify the specific bottlenecks within the team, such as planning or unclear specifications. Applying user research principles to understand developer bottlenecks is crucial. Using metrics and frameworks can help advocate for technical productivity work, but it's essential to adjust the level of detail when presenting to business people or executives. Building a business case for technical work is a valuable skill for engineering leaders, often overlooked but essential for promoting technical improvements within an organization.