How I provide technical clarity to non-technical leaders
a day ago
- #staff-engineer
- #technical-clarity
- #leadership-communication
- The primary role of a staff engineer is to provide technical clarity to non-technical leaders.
- Technical clarity means non-technical decision-makers have a practical understanding of software system changes.
- Decision-makers rely on vague mental models and advice from trusted engineers due to lack of time and context.
- Technical clarity is rare because software systems are inherently complex, even for experienced engineers.
- Non-technical leaders often need answers to critical technical questions before making decisions.
- Staff engineers or senior engineers often serve as unofficial technical advisors to leadership.
- Providing technical clarity is high-leverage work, often more valued than individual project contributions.
- Engineers must balance confidence with uncertainty when advising non-technical leaders.
- Simplifying technical communication is necessary for clarity, but engineers must still highlight key risks.
- Effective technical clarity requires good judgment, deep system knowledge, and confidence in communication.