Survival in the software wilderness

Competition is fierce and the complexity of tasks is increasing. We are reaching our limits more and more often. One of the reasons for this is the tendency towards individualistic approaches in software development. Yet we could draw on invaluable skills that ensured the survival of cavemen.

Let's take a little trip back to prehistoric times to see what we've forgotten.

We struggle for survival in the wilderness with our limited physical strength. We are slower and weaker than most of the animals that are on our menu – or whose menu we are. Even the smartest individual would have little chance of surviving alone, let alone reproducing (I couldn't resist).

Fortunately, nature endowed us with the capacity for strong social bonds and highly developed communication. In evolution, good relationships clearly take precedence over cold, hard intelligence. Intelligence is even fostered by good relationships. Our brain rewards them with hormones that further boost our creativity and willingness to learn. You are surely familiar with the creative highs that people experience when they understand each other well, both literally and figuratively.

Especially in the highly abstract world of software development, we unfortunately often act as if only abstract thinkers exist. In doing so, we overlook the importance of age-old human survival strategies: good relationships within the team and the exchange of experience through personal communication. When solitary hackers retreat too deeply into their virtual world, they lose social contact. When communication between team members is limited to emails and conference calls, much important, especially nonverbal, information and motivation is lost. This effect is further amplified by technical jargon or other foreign languages.

Thus, much of the potential of human abilities for solving complex tasks remains untapped. Evolution offers a simple solution for such shortcomings: natural selection. In this respect, some software teams could still learn something from early humans: those who learn, cultivate, and develop positive relationships and genuine communication are better equipped to survive in the software wilderness.

Tips for personal communication: Request them now!

I look forward to your suggestions below. denkanstoss@microconsult.de.

Peter Siwon

Test: Are you a communication klutz?

Award points:
0 = never, 1 = hardly ever, 2 = occasionally, 3 = very often, 4 = always

1. I'm going to lunch with my colleagues.

2. I enjoy spending my work breaks with colleagues.

3. I find weekly team meetings very useful.

4. In tricky situations, I prefer a personal conversation.

5. I enjoy participating in joint activities.

6. I look forward to summer parties and Christmas celebrations with colleagues.

7. A conversation with colleagues provides me with good suggestions.

Evaluation:

0-10 points:
You tend to be a loner who doesn't seek much personal contact with colleagues. You might feel that you can reach your goals fastest on your own. Why not give it a try and give yourself and others the chance to succeed together? Or simply enjoy the relaxation of a lighthearted, humorous chat during a break.

11-20 points:
You are a communicative person for whom communication is much more than just the exchange of dry facts. Perhaps you will still find some inspiration in my short list of tips. If you have a good tip for me, I look forward to your email at denkanstoss@microconsult.de.

More than 20 points:
You are a very communicative person. However, there is a risk that you might overtax your colleagues' willingness to communicate. Therefore, please observe how well your need for communication is reciprocated.

Further information

Training & coaching
MicroConsult Training & Coaching on project management

MicroConsult training and coaching - overview

Food for thought:
Column by Peter Siwon about the human side of project work

Peter Siwon: Systemic project management