Four years ago this week, I started my exciting new adventure as a Software Development Manager (SDM)!
It is now the longest time I have been in a single position in technology. My longevity is due in part to how much fun the role has been. I have described it to others as "the most fun I have ever had for a paycheck."
In celebration of the anniversary - and new personal best! - I will distill some of my reflections on the nature of the SDM role into a series of short posts. I am tempted to call them the "5 Commandments" but that implies a completeness, that there are only 5 important things. Which is not true; managing a development team has so many factors that matter, not least of which is a depth and breadth of technology understanding.
These are the non-technical topics that I want to cover:
- Revise your definition of Success
- Own the errors and failures - yours and the team's
- Protect your team
- Know your Domain
- Management and Leadership only overlap
And a final fun-fact. After years as a Developer in cubicles or open-concept common areas, my new Manager role came with an office and an actual window onto the outside world! Of course, the view left a little something to be desired...