The article discusses different mindsets that shape software delivery team structures and the importance of being deliberate about the mindset being scaled.
It explores the Engineering Manager Model and Autonomous Cross-Functional Teams, highlighting their respective pros and cons.
The article reflects on a conversation with an executive who emphasized the need for Engineering Managers to be highly skilled technical experts while also leading.
It emphasizes the challenge of expecting managers to excel both in technical mastery and people management.
The article supports the idea of having highly skilled engineers in teams but argues against making them managers, focusing instead on mentorship and technical leadership.
It describes a model where Software Engineering Managers focus on mentorship, career development, and team growth separately from the delivery team structure.
The article advocates for a structure that promotes autonomy, accountability, and team cohesion rather than hierarchical management.
It highlights the success of a model that separates people management from delivery, leading to high retention rates and internal promotions.
The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of leadership models in shaping how organizations operate and the mindset behind the chosen structures.
It encourages leaders to build systems where teams can thrive autonomously and to be clear about the mindset they are scaling within their organization.