I often dive deep into research on a topic when an idea resonates with me. I might read a paper, an article, or find something in a book. What starts as curiosity becomes a full-fledged exploration. I read broadly across science, psychology, and sociology, always seeking the connections between disciplines and outcomes. During one of … Continue reading Strategic activity mapping for software architects
Author: Oleg Dulin
On the role of Distinguished Engineer and CTO Mindset
For the past four months, I have been working on my Wharton Executive CTO Program. There is no new content to learn or assignment to do this week, which means it’s a good opportunity to reflect on progress. I am a Distinguished Engineer at ADP, a Fortune 500 technology services company. Today, I am one … Continue reading On the role of Distinguished Engineer and CTO Mindset
The future is bright
Is there a future in traditional computer science? The short answer is yes. I am confident that the future is bright. Here is the longer answer. What is Computer Science? Computer Science is the study of computation. It includes theoretical concepts like information, automata, and complexity theories. You will study algorithms and data structures and … Continue reading The future is bright
2024 Reflections
2024 in Review: thoughts on aspirational goals They say goals should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. When I talk to students and early-career software engineers, I always tell them to also set aspirational goals. Aspirational goals are just a bit beyond achievable, and they are not time-bound. Set one aspirational goal and … Continue reading 2024 Reflections
My giant follows me wherever I go
My giant follows me wherever I go In his "Self-Reliance" essay, Ralph Waldo Emerson said: "At home I dream that at Naples, at Rome, I can be intoxicated with beauty, and lose my sadness. I pack my trunk, embrace my friends, embark on the sea, and at last wake up in Naples, and there beside … Continue reading My giant follows me wherever I go
The day I became an architect
What triggered my professional growth spurt and promotion was an epiphany that I am more effective if I help engineers grow rather than do things myself. Historically, I would build things and then pass them off to engineers. Instead, I realized that empowering the team to make a collaborative architecture decision and grow together is a hell of a lot more rewarding than the way I used to do things.
Are developer jobs truly in decline?
A recent study showed that software developer employment peaked in 2019 and has been declining since. I question some of the methodology and conclusions. Shameless plug Before I continue, I’d like to discuss a new project I am working on. It is called Ignorance and Confidence Podcast. I partnered with Mark Porter, a good friend who happens to … Continue reading Are developer jobs truly in decline?
Leadership is About “We,” Not “I”
Every now and then I hear a leader boast, "I created a multi-million revenue generating product for my company." Such a statement makes me wonder if this person worked alone on the project. Authentic leadership isn't about self-promotion but recognizing the collective effort. Behind every successful software product lies a dedicated team. Engineers, analysts, testers, designers, sales, … Continue reading Leadership is About “We,” Not “I”
Form follows fiasco
Why software architects should stick with their projects Last weekend, I took my daughter to an antique bookstore/coffee house where we came upon a book called "Form Follows Fiasco: Why Modern Architecture Hasn't Worked." This book is not about software architecture. It's about actual architecture, which involves buildings that might collapse if not built right. … Continue reading Form follows fiasco
Software Engineering is here to stay
I counter the dramatic assertion that developer jobs are on the brink of obsolescence. I distinguish the roles of coders, who may face obsolescence due to their narrow focus on translating specifications into code, and software engineers, whose broad skill set in solving complex problems and innovating ensures their continued relevance. I argue that artificial intelligence and large language models augment rather than replace the human intellect, emphasizing that while app development and deployment methods may evolve, the necessity for software system maintenance and the efficiency of programming languages as a form of shorthand will keep developer roles indispensable. I argue that, despite technological advancements changing the landscape of app development, the core importance of the software engineer's role remains unchanged.
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