The article reflects on the challenges of software engineering, particularly in the context of rewriting core utilities in Rust for Ubuntu. It discusses the historical context of computing, the evolution of programming languages, ...
About:
Jos Visser is a writer interested in work-related topics, known for the 'Wednesday Wisdom' series.
Website:
Specializations:
Interests:
Subscribe to RSS:
AI coding tools like Codex enhance software development productivity but do not replace the need for skilled human engineers, raising questions about future practices and training.
The post argues that prioritizing innovation over efficiency, especially in AI integration, leads to greater creativity and effective problem-solving in organizations.
Site Reliability Engineering has evolved from its origins at Google, emphasizing the need for understanding principles over mere pattern application to ensure system reliability tailored to business needs.
Josephus C. Visser humorously critiques cold outreach in the tech industry, emphasizing the need for meaningful connections and his unavailability for referrals.
The blog post highlights the complexity of software engineering problems, emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding rather than oversimplification and interchangeable views of personnel.
The article discusses the complexities and challenges of IT projects, using examples like the Dutch ship builder Damen Naval and the failed Project KEI in the Dutch court system. The author emphasizes that understanding the intric...
The article discusses the pitfalls of relying on 'heroic' efforts in software engineering and operations, highlighting how such a culture can lead to inefficiencies and a lack of proactive problem-solving. It recounts various expe...
The post highlights the necessity of persistent communication and executive support in driving organizational change, likening it to Taylor Swift's constant visibility in popular culture.
Seniority in engineering is defined by mindset and approach, not just job title, as demonstrated through personal experiences and insights.
Understanding mathematics is crucial for software engineers, as it enhances problem-solving skills and decision-making, despite its limited direct application in many roles.
Transitioning from a skilled engineer to a technical leader requires identifying problems, building a holistic view, and developing leadership skills over time.
In this blog post, Jos Visser reflects on key inflection points in his career that significantly changed his approach to engineering and leadership. He identifies two main modes of learning: facing difficult challenges and learnin...
The article discusses the importance of adhering to formal processes in both law and software engineering, emphasizing that neglecting these forms can lead to significant consequences. It highlights the necessity of following lega...
The author compares his transformative experiences at Google in Zürich to Asimov's tale of a secret sense, highlighting the challenges of nostalgia and the need to embrace new opportunities.
Good engineers often produce bad software due to time constraints, emphasizing the need for thorough design, feedback, and addressing technical debt.
The author shares personal experiences and lessons learned from running a small consultancy firm from the early 1990s to 2006. Key points include the challenges of negotiating with agencies, the importance of having a good informa...
The post-career phase allows individuals to find fulfillment in their work without the pressure of career advancement, reflecting a shift in societal views on aging and employment.
Kindness in communication, especially online, is essential for fostering positive relationships and collaboration, as the author shares his journey of overcoming negativity.
The author discusses the pervasive stress experienced in modern life, particularly in the context of job insecurity and economic pressures. Drawing from personal experiences, the author reflects on how stress, while a natural resp...
The article shares three anecdotes illustrating the challenges of career advancement in dysfunctional corporate environments. The author recounts experiences with students and colleagues who faced obstacles due to their work being...
The author shares lessons learned from their journey as an independent consultant and small business owner in the IT training sector. After facing bankruptcy from an agency, they partnered with another consultant to work directly ...
Success in one's career requires intrinsic motivation, clarity on employer expectations, and a personal definition of success, rather than relying solely on luck.
The article explores the metaphor of being a 'duck' or a 'koala' to describe different approaches to skills and expertise. The author reflects on their own experiences with varied interests and skills, likening themselves to a duc...