Nobody Gets Promoted for Simplicity
5 hours ago
- #engineering
- #complexity
- #simplicity
- Simplicity in engineering is undervalued, while complexity is often rewarded.
- Engineers who over-engineer solutions tend to receive more recognition and promotions.
- Simple solutions are often overlooked because they lack a compelling narrative.
- Interviews and design reviews often favor complex solutions over simple ones.
- Unnecessary complexity can make systems harder to maintain and understand.
- The key to seniority is knowing when not to use complex tools and patterns.
- Engineers should document their decision-making process to highlight simplicity.
- Engineering leaders should incentivize and celebrate simplicity in their teams.
- Promotion criteria should consider the complexity avoided, not just the complexity added.
- Public recognition should include engineers who simplify and delete unnecessary code.