Fukinsei

Fukinsei (不均整) Asymmetry or irregularity. The idea of controlling balance in a composition via irregularity and asymmetry is a central tenet of the Zen aesthetic. The enso (“Zen circle”) in brush painting, for example, is often drawn as an incomplete circle, symbolizing the imperfection that is part of existence. In graphic design too asymmetrical balance is a dynamic, beautiful thing. Try looking for (or creating) beauty in balanced asymmetry. Nature itself is full of beauty and harmonious relationships that are asymmetrical yet balanced. This is a dynamic beauty that attracts and engages.

🐕‍🦺 Leadership

A playbook for managing & leading in difficult times & crises

Times of crisis require both management (in the sense of bringing order, predictability) and leadership (in the sense of coping with ambiguity and change), and leadership can come from anyone at all levels, so pick what works for you in your role as a manger and/or leader.

What you give up when moving into engineering management

Moving into a management role may be a rewarding step in your career, but you should know about the things you’re leaving behind.

2022 European Tech Salary Report

A report on software engineering salaries in the region.

Effective communication with software engineers

A piece of writing targeting Product Managers (but useful for other non-engineering functions as well). I’d hope most of it won’t be news to you, yet it’s a nice distillation.

Building A Strong Tech Talent Pipeline

Pretty much a ‘meat and potatoes’ guide on tech hiring but it is clear and concise.

Building Remote Culture: 4 Easy-To-Implement Weekly Rituals

Remote team connection is a goal that most of us acknowledge is important, but aren’t sure how to encourage in a way that feels good. Virtual team bonding via happy hours or social events just doesn’t quite do it.

💻 Tech

Practical Guide to Solving Hard Problems

A nice, no-brainer list of steps to tackle hard problems, a mental framework.

A Cursed Bug

This is the story of a bug the author and his team recently put to rest; a bug which, from the very first inklings of its existence, they repeatedly described as “cursed.” Now that they understand it, they want to share just how delightfully cursed it was.

Why some Information Technologies remain relevant after many decades?

On one hand, the simple question is which software technologies stand the test of time; meaning they are still enabling/supporting businesses to basically make money. On the other, the more complex and interesting question is why.

❤️ Enjoyed this newsletter?

Forward to a friend and let them know where they can subscribe (hint: it’s here or using the form right below).

Anything else? Drop a line to [email protected] to send me feedback or say hello.