The Future of Software Engineering | Samuel Malachowsky | TEDxRIT

Summary

In this insightful talk, Sam, a seasoned software engineer, explores the profound influence of software engineering on modern society. He discusses the convergence of work tools and processes, highlighting how the industry's innovations have permeated various sectors. Sam emphasizes the importance of being adaptable and adopting efficient workflows, often pioneered by software engineers, to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving world. He encourages individuals to embrace change and leverage technology to improve personal and professional lives.

Takeaways

• 🏢 The convergence of workspaces reflects a broader trend where different professions' tools and processes are becoming more similar due to digitalization.
• 👨‍💻 Sam, a software engineer, emphasizes the significant influence of software engineering on modern society and other industries.
• 🚗 The speaker illustrates the impact of software engineering by comparing the imagined future with the current reality, such as self-driving cars.
• 🛠️ The evolution from traditional architect tools to computer-aided design (CAD) software exemplifies the tool replacement facilitated by software engineering.
• 🔄 The idea of 'tool conversion' is expanded to include not just the replacement of physical tools but also the digital transformation of processes and workflows.
• 🤖 Software engineers have been instrumental in automating tasks, which has led to more efficient workflows across various domains.
• 💼 The speaker suggests that the digital transformation has made the traditional 'Iron Triangle' of project management less restrictive for software engineers, focusing more on person-hours.
• 🛑 The speaker points out that the influence of software engineering is evident in the prevalence of digital tools and online information, often overshadowing other important scientific concepts.
• 🔍 By observing and adopting practices from software engineering, individuals and industries can gain a competitive or personal advantage.
• 🔄 The concept of 'Agile' and tools like Trello, originating from software engineering, can be adapted to improve personal and professional organization.
• 🔭 The speaker encourages looking forward and adopting modern practices to stay relevant and leverage the benefits of software engineering advancements.

Q & A

What is the main theme of Sam's talk?

The main theme of Sam's talk is the influence of software engineering on various industries and how the convergence of tools and workflows has shaped modern work practices.

What does Sam suggest when he mentions the desk on the right?

Sam suggests that the desk on the right represents a convergence of different types of work, making it difficult to distinguish the profession of the person who uses it just by looking at the items on the desk.

What is Sam's profession and how long has he been in the industry?

Sam is a software engineer, and he mentions that he has been in the industry for a long time, also teaching software engineering.

What does Sam mean by 'tool replacement' in the context of software engineering?

By 'tool replacement,' Sam refers to the historical shift from traditional tools used by architects, such as drawing tables and pencils, to computer-based tools like CAD software.

How does Sam describe the evolution of contracts in the digital age?

Sam describes the evolution of contracts as transitioning from physical documents to digital contracts, complete with digital signatures, reflecting the influence of software engineering on legal and business processes.

What is the concept of 'convergence' as discussed by Sam?

The concept of 'convergence' discussed by Sam refers to the blending of different types of work and tools, making them look alike and function in a similar manner across various professions.

What does Sam imply about the influence of software engineers on modern society?

Sam implies that software engineers have a significant influence on modern society, as many of the tools and workflows we use today have been shaped by their way of thinking and the products they create.

What is the 'Iron Triangle' in project management that Sam refers to?

The 'Iron Triangle' in project management refers to the three constraints of time, resources, and scope, which are often in conflict and require trade-offs to be made.

How does Sam explain the shift in the 'Iron Triangle' for software engineers?

Sam explains that for software engineers, the shift in the 'Iron Triangle' has led to a combination of time and resources into 'person hours,' making the cost of materials relatively insignificant compared to the cost of human labor.

What is Sam's advice for individuals who are not software engineers but want to benefit from the influence of software engineering?

Sam's advice is to keep one's eyes open, observe the practices of other industries, and adopt tools and processes created by software engineers to gain a competitive or personal advantage.

What example does Sam give of a modern software engineering practice that has influenced other industries?

Sam gives the example of customer relationship management (CRM) tools, which originated in software engineering and have since radiated out to influence other industries.