Logs

For the past few days, I have been reflecting on the crucial role of Human touch in software delivery. When you look at what OpenAI and xAI have been releasing. All you can do is just ask yourself, can we even keep up? OpenAI’s released GPTs infrastructure can end/close most of the chatbot businesses worldwide. and xAI released Grok was built in 2 months and outperforms ChatGPT 3.5 in numerous tests. Let’s rewind a bit. How do you build a product that outperforms ChatGPT 3.5 in 2 months? Yes, they have the resources (people, data, etc) but it is mind-blowing. We are in the the dynamic landscape of technology, where Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools promise efficiency and precision in software delivery and the value of humans is now more on the data perspective and not the touch. But the human touch in technology can not be overstated. As a Lead on projects, I now find myself trying to make a balance on the potential of AI tools in the delivery process while figuring out what a human touch provides.

The AI (Dis) Advantage

In this race for AI innovation, everyone wants to keep up with the pace. But the big players are making it hard and easy at the same time. Your business solution core API can easily be part of the next OpenAI event and everyone would be able to replicate your business. This comes with benefits to the world but businesses will and are closing because the value they were providing is no longer scarce. AI tools have proven crucial, Automated testing, continuous integration, and predictive analytics have significantly enhanced our ability to meet tight deadlines and deliver solutions with precision. The efficiency gains are undeniable, and our teams are more empowered than ever before.

However, it is crucial to recognize that every tech leader is experiencing an “If you can’t fight them, join them. moment”. Nothing good comes from having only handful of companies providing allmost all models because many people will give up and we might end up with one provider for most of the models.

The Unseen Challenges

In the pursuit of speed and accuracy, it is easy to overlook the subtle complexities of human interaction that define successful software delivery. Communication, collaboration, and the ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges are inherently human attributes that AI tools, as sophisticated as they are, struggle to replicate.

One of the challenges I think of, Is striking the right balance between leveraging AI for its undeniable advantages and preserving the irreplaceable human touch in our development processes. And I don’t have a definitive solution yet, because each business requirement calls for a custom solution and most solutions are not 1 or 0, They are a balance or combination of the two.

The Art of Balancing Business Requirements

In the competitive arena of business, the pressure to deliver quickly and cost-effectively is always there. AI tools provide a compelling solution, but the danger lies in overlooking the unique value proposition that human touch offers.

Aligning AI tools with business requirements while ensuring that human insights guide decision-making. While AI can analyze data and detect patterns, it is the human touch that interprets and anticipates user needs that can not be detected in data or behaviour, and ensures the end product is not just functional but resonates with the end users.

Humans and AI in Friendship

Rather than viewing AI as a replacement for human involvement, I support its integration as a complementary force. Human touch should guide the strategic vision, interpret feedback, and provide the empathy necessary for crafting software that truly meets user needs.

To achieve this synergy, teams should understand the capabilities and limitations of AI tools. We should strive for a collaborative environment where humans and AI work together, leveraging the strengths of each to overcome challenges and enhance the overall software delivery process.

Conclusion

As a lead, my commitment is to deliver cutting-edge solutions but also foster an environment where the union of AI and human touch results in software that not only meets business requirements but exceeds user expectations. The true value lies not just in the lines of code but in the human stories we enable through our technology.

As I heard in the early days of my career, It is always People and Technology, not the other way around.

JN

I had a great conversation with Elvis Melia in the recent MeliaCRED conversations, where we talked about Objectivity and the impact we want to make in the ever-evolving technology ecosystem in Rwanda.

It was an honor to share my insights and experience with the audience. I believe that this podcast will be a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about Objectivity and the tech ecosystem as a whole.

What Does It Take to Attract Developers?

Attracting and hiring developers is no easy task. Companies need to create an attractive workplace that appeals to experienced engineers, as well as have a recruitment strategy which can reach out to the right candidates. It takes more than just a good job offer and competitive salary for companies to be able to attract developers.

From creating an engaging culture and environment, to having a comprehensive recruitment process in place – companies need to consider many factors when looking for engineers. In this article, we will explore some of the best strategies used by organizations today when it comes to recruiting and hiring developers.

Investing in a Strong Company Culture and Perks

In today’s competitive job market, investing in a strong company culture and offering attractive perks is essential for businesses to attract and retain the best talent. Companies need to offer competitive salaries, high-paying jobs, and attractive benefits packages to stay ahead of the competition.

At the same time, it is equally important for companies to invest in creating a positive company culture. This means providing employees with a sense of purpose and belonging, as well as opportunities for growth and development. By investing in a strong company culture and offering attractive perks, businesses can create an environment that encourages employees to stay motivated and productive.

Marketing Your Brand as an Innovative and Forward-Thinking Organization

As the world is becoming increasingly digital, it is important for businesses to market themselves as an innovative and forward-thinking organization. Having a tech-savvy culture and workplace diversity are key in showing that your company is up-to-date with the latest trends. By staying ahead of the curve and embracing new technologies, you can position your brand as an industry leader.

In order to be seen as an innovative organization, it’s important to invest in the right technology and create a culture of learning and experimentation. This involves having a workplace where everyone feels comfortable sharing their ideas, taking risks, and pushing boundaries. Additionally, creating a diverse workforce will help you stay ahead of the competition by bringing new perspectives into your business. By investing in these areas, you can ensure that your brand stands out from the competition as one that is progressive and forward-thinking.

Developing Flexible Work Schedules and Remote Working Options

The traditional 9-5 work schedule is no longer the only option for employees. With the rise of remote working options and flexible work schedules, companies are now able to offer their employees more freedom and flexibility. This allows them to better balance their work and personal lives, while still getting their job done.

Flexible work schedules and remote working options can benefit both employers and employees alike. Employers can save money on office space, while employees can enjoy more freedom in how they manage their time. By taking advantage of these options, companies can create a more productive environment that encourages collaboration amongst its workers.

Creating a Comprehensive Onboarding Process for New Developers

Creating a comprehensive onboarding process for new developers is essential for any business that wants to ensure their development team is successful. A well-planned onboarding process will help the new developer quickly become productive and integrated into the team. It will also provide the necessary information and resources to help them become successful in their role.

An effective onboarding process should include a checklist of tasks that need to be completed, such as setting up accounts, receiving training on specific tools and technologies, and getting up to speed with company protocols. Additionally, it should provide an overview of the development environment, explain expectations for job performance, and set clear goals for success. By taking these steps, businesses can ensure that developers are able to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact on the team’s success.

Building an Effective Network of Support with Mentorship Programs

Mentorship programs have become an invaluable tool for developers to learn and grow in their careers. By connecting with experienced professionals, developers can gain valuable insight into the industry, learn best practices, and build an effective network of support.

Mentorship programs provide a platform for developers to connect with mentors who have the knowledge and experience to help them navigate their career paths. Mentors can provide guidance on how to use the latest technologies, develop new skills, and gain exposure to different job opportunities. They can also offer advice on how to manage work-life balance, handle stress, and stay motivated throughout their career journey.

This log was AI 🤝🏾 Jacques Written