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The software development landscape has long sought the holy grail of universal solutions, echoing the “write once, run anywhere” promise of Java. This allure has seeped into platform engineering, where the notion of a one-size-fits-all platform - a singular entity capable of addressing the diverse needs of every team within an organization - has gained traction. However, like many oversimplified ideals, this approach has many pitfalls that can impede innovation, scalability, and overall organizational effectiveness....

Problem-solving is a cornerstone of progress. Yet, a common pitfall in many organizations is the knee-jerk reaction to “remove access” whenever issues arise. While this might seem like a quick fix, it is a flawed approach that ultimately stifles growth, innovation, and collaboration. This article explores why “remove access” is counterproductive, and outlines a comprehensive framework for fostering shared responsibility, empowering engineers with the right tools, and establishing robust observability mechanisms to ensure problems are addressed proactively and effectively....

Steve Demchuk’s observation that “platform teams win over devs with quick wins” is spot-on. Engineers appreciate seeing the results of their work quickly, and by delivering small, incremental improvements to the platform, platform teams can demonstrate their value and build trust with other engineers. This can lead to increased collaboration and support for the platform. If you’re a platform team leader, read on to learn how you can win over your engineers with quicker wins....

Whether to build in-house or outsource development is an important decision. A profound piece of advice suggests, “I believe you should only build with your own hands what makes for a core IP of your company and gives you a unique competitive advantage.” This principle resonates deeply, emphasizing the significance of focusing internal development efforts on aspects that directly contribute to a company’s unique identity and market differentiation. Understanding Core IP and Competitive Advantage Core IP refers to the intellectual property (IP) assets that lie at the heart of a company’s offerings and form the foundation of its value proposition....

If you’re a CrossFit enthusiast who also dabbles in the world of coding, you’ve probably noticed some similarities between the two. Both involve intricate processes, require a blend of strategy and execution, and demand unwavering focus. But the parallels run deeper than you might think. CrossFit WODs (Workouts of the Day) can serve as a surprisingly insightful blueprint for tackling complex coding projects. Let’s break down this analogy and explore how the principles of CrossFit can elevate your coding game....