This blog is dedicated to the exploration and practice of leadership theory and management, with a focus on technology and software development.

If I were to state my aspiration here it would be to quote Scottish economist James Wilson who founded the newspaper The Economist to “take part in a severe contest between intelligence, which presses forward, and an unworthy, timid ignorance obstructing our progress.” But that’s way too lofty for me, so let’s just talk about how to lead a great team, and how to get the best possible results.

In 35+ years in the software industry, I have figured a few things out. There is a wide gap between teams that do spectacularly well, and teams that struggle and churn members. Why? There should be a way to establish a culture of excellence and innovation without burning people at the stake. Everybody wants to be on an awesome team that does cool stuff. Everybody wants to be proud of what they’ve built and have lots of people use it. That builds tremendous incentive for anyone in the industry. So why is it so hard?

The truth is… it’s Not. It’s easy. and the better you can implement a few simple principles, the more excellent, the more innovative, and the easier it gets. Really.

That’s what this blog is all about.

Rob