Good engineering principles, like prioritizing simplicity, focusing on the user, and embracing iteration, apply equally to individuals and organizations. An engineer's effectiveness hinges on clear communication, understanding context, and building trust, just as an organization's success depends on efficient processes, shared understanding, and psychological safety. Essentially, the qualities that make a good engineer—curiosity, pragmatism, and a bias towards action—should be reflected in the organizational culture and processes to foster a productive and fulfilling engineering environment. By prioritizing these principles, both engineers and organizations can create better products and more satisfying experiences.
In a 2024 blog post titled "What makes a good engineer also makes a good engineering organization," author Moxie Marlinspike posits that the qualities that distinguish an exceptional individual engineer are strikingly similar to the attributes that characterize a high-performing engineering organization. Marlinspike argues that the conventional wisdom, which often emphasizes process and structure as the keys to organizational success, overlooks the more fundamental elements that drive effective engineering, both at the individual and collective levels.
He begins by elucidating the traits of a strong engineer, highlighting not just technical proficiency but also a deeper understanding of the underlying principles governing their work. This includes a grasp of the "why" behind technical decisions, a penchant for problem-solving that goes beyond merely addressing surface-level symptoms, and a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating potential issues before they escalate. This proactive nature is not merely about preventing bugs but about anticipating future needs and designing systems with flexibility and adaptability in mind. Marlinspike emphasizes the importance of a deep understanding of systems, recognizing the interconnectedness of various components and how modifications in one area can have cascading effects elsewhere. He suggests that this systems thinking allows engineers to make more informed decisions and anticipate potential pitfalls.
The author then extends this analysis to the organizational level, arguing that successful engineering organizations mirror these individual characteristics. He contends that an organization that values deep understanding, proactive problem-solving, and systems thinking will cultivate an environment where engineers can thrive and produce exceptional results. Just as a good engineer doesn't simply follow instructions but seeks to understand the rationale behind them, a good engineering organization fosters a culture of inquiry and encourages its members to challenge assumptions and explore alternative approaches. This organizational embodiment of proactive thinking translates into a focus on long-term sustainability and resilience, anticipating future challenges and investing in solutions that can adapt to evolving circumstances.
Furthermore, Marlinspike underscores the importance of organizational structure mirroring the interconnectedness of the systems being built. He argues that an organization with rigid hierarchies and siloed teams will struggle to replicate the holistic understanding that characterizes a proficient engineer’s approach to complex systems. Instead, he advocates for more fluid and adaptable structures that allow for cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing, enabling the organization as a whole to develop a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of its work. This approach facilitates the identification of potential conflicts and dependencies early in the development process, leading to more robust and resilient systems.
In essence, Marlinspike’s argument centers on the idea that effective engineering, whether performed by an individual or an entire organization, stems from a fundamental commitment to understanding, proactivity, and a holistic systems perspective. By cultivating these core principles, organizations can create environments that empower engineers to excel and deliver exceptional results, mirroring the effectiveness of the most talented individual practitioners.
Summary of Comments ( 98 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44026703
HN commenters largely agreed with Moxie's points about the importance of individual engineers having ownership and agency. Several highlighted the damaging effects of excessive process and rigid hierarchies, echoing Moxie's emphasis on autonomy. Some discussed the challenges of scaling these principles, particularly in larger organizations, with suggestions like breaking down large teams into smaller, more independent units. A few commenters debated the definition of "good engineering," questioning whether focusing solely on speed and impact could lead to neglecting important factors like maintainability and code quality. The importance of clear communication and shared understanding within a team was also a recurring theme. Finally, some commenters pointed out the cyclical nature of these trends, noting that the pendulum often swings between centralized control and decentralized autonomy in engineering organizations.
The Hacker News post discussing Moxie Marlinspike's blog post "A Good Engineer" has generated a substantial amount of discussion, with a diverse range of perspectives on the qualities that define both good engineers and effective engineering organizations.
Several commenters agree with Marlinspike's central premise, highlighting the importance of curiosity, the ability to quickly learn and adapt, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. One commenter elaborates on this, stating that good engineers possess an "innate drive to understand how things work," which translates into a continuous quest for improvement and optimization. Another emphasizes the significance of "systems thinking," arguing that understanding the broader context in which a problem exists is crucial for developing effective solutions. They go further, suggesting that fostering an environment where engineers can explore and experiment, even if it leads to occasional failures, is essential for long-term growth.
The discussion also touches upon the translation of individual qualities to the organizational level. Some commenters believe that organizations mirroring the characteristics of a good engineer—adaptability, a willingness to learn, and a focus on continuous improvement—tend to be more successful. One commenter specifically mentions the importance of "psychological safety," allowing engineers to voice their concerns and propose novel ideas without fear of reprisal. This sentiment is echoed by another who emphasizes the need for open communication and collaboration within the organization.
However, not all comments are in complete agreement with Marlinspike. Some argue that while the qualities he mentions are valuable, they don't encompass the full spectrum of what makes a good engineer. One commenter points out the importance of domain expertise and experience, especially in complex fields, suggesting that a focus solely on adaptability can sometimes overlook the value of specialized knowledge. Another commenter highlights the importance of communication and teamwork, asserting that even the most brilliant individual can be ineffective if they struggle to collaborate with others.
Several comments also delve into the practical aspects of building good engineering organizations. One commenter discusses the challenges of hiring and retaining talent, emphasizing the importance of creating a culture that attracts and nurtures individuals with the desired qualities. Another commenter highlights the role of leadership in fostering a positive and productive engineering environment, suggesting that effective leaders empower their teams and provide them with the resources they need to succeed.
Finally, a few commenters provide anecdotal evidence from their own experiences, sharing stories of both successful and unsuccessful engineering teams and the factors that contributed to their respective outcomes. These personal accounts add a layer of practical insight to the more theoretical aspects of the discussion. Overall, the Hacker News comments provide a rich and multifaceted perspective on the characteristics of good engineers and the organizational structures that support their success.