How To Get Development On Your Side
I will be the first to admit that I have uttered the words: “Software development would be great if it wasn’t for all the pesky programmers.” Of course, I don’t really mean that (mostly). However, once in a while they can really get on your nerves.
The problem is, they have this special skill set that you don’t have (or at least don’t admit you have) which is architecting software solutions and writing code. Their work brings your positioning documents, requirements documents, and roadmaps to life.
They’re kind of necessary.
In fact, I prefer to have have the development team on my side. It is a key strategy to getting things done. So, what is the secret?
- Do your homework. The last thing a development team wants to do is work their butts off for three to six months to deliver a product that nobody wants to buy. Make sure you have gathered the appropriate market information and have a business case before knocking on development’s door. This builds trust and respect.
- Document the problem, not the solution. Programmers are programmers because they like to solve problems. They want to understand the business needs and think of creative ways to meet those needs using technology.
- Don’t add scope at the last minute. Independent of the software development methodology you use, it’s never cool to add features in at the last minute. If it is absolutely, the-world-will-end-if-we-don’t-add-it, super required, then regroup and set expectations. For example, if using agile, add another iteration and communicate the new timeline.
- Show a unified front. When communicating status to the rest of the company, make sure to use “we” vs. “they.” For example, “we were not able to get the advanced search feature into this release.” This creates a sense of solidarity, which goes a long way.
- If all else fails, food works every time. Cookies, pizza, snacks… Just keep it coming. And if you ask your team to stay late, transform your role into caterer for the evening. They will love you forever! (Or at least for several days.)
For some great recipies (and for an example of an awesome registration experience), check out epicurious.
