Why Engineering Leaders Need to Write Now ??? | by Vijay Chintha | Platform Engineering Unleashed | Aug, 2023

Introduction :

In an age defined by rapid technological advancements, the flow of information becomes paramount. To understand technology’s ever-expanding landscape, we must rely not only on Sales, marketing, product leads, journalists, and influencers but also on those directly steering the ship: our engineering managers and directors.

Note: While I did not intend to undermine all of their capabilities, I want to emphasize that engineers and managers can be invaluable allies, and it gives “an organization an advantage by representing as market leaders in what they do”

Why Engineering Leaders Must Take The Pen (or Keyboard)

Engineering managers and directors hold a treasure of knowledge. From the intricacies of software architecture to the nuances of hardware integration, they are the bedrock of our technological ecosystem. But why should they write?

1. Perspective: Their position gives them a unique vantage point. They see the bigger picture of how various technological pieces fit together and can offer an unparalleled depth of understanding.
2. Clarity: While engineers often communicate complex concepts amongst themselves, managers and directors are responsible for distilling this information for stakeholders, and writing forces a clarity of thought that benefits all.
3. Bridging the Gap: The chasm between technical and non-technical teams like sales, marketing, and product development can be vast. Regular insights from engineering leaders can serve as a bridge, making collaborations smoother and more informed.

The Changing Face of Technology

With every passing day, technology delves deeper. We have moved beyond superficial applications to systems that intertwine with our daily lives, affecting everything from our routines to global economies. This immense depth and breadth necessitate a robust understanding not just at the execution level but also at the decision-making level.

Sales, marketing, and product leads operate at the frontline, interfacing with clients, consumers, and the market. For them, a nuanced understanding of the technology they’re selling, marketing, or developing is no longer a ‘good-to-have’; it’s a necessity. And who better to guide them than the captains of the engineering world?

The Call to Action

So, to our engineering managers and directors, the call is clear. Begin writing, filming, sharing. Whether it’s articles that delve deep into a new technological trend, blogs that offer managerial insights, books that chronicle the journey of a project, or vlogs that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a product, your insights are invaluable.

In doing so, you will be helping your colleagues in sales, marketing, and product roles and shaping tomorrow’s technological narratives. Remember, knowledge grows when shared. And in our rapidly evolving world, that shared knowledge might be the source we all need.