Some companies are aware of this. Google seems to actually teach[1] project managers about this, as recently summarazied by stcredzero[2]:
"A workable program for teaching technical people how to effectively manage others in specific technical contexts is probably one of the most potent things a company could have.
So much of the quality and productivity of a programming group depends on how well the group is managed. Despite this, the production of effective managers is often shockingly haphazard.
They are not going to do something for you just because of your title. You really have to make your case...
"One of the practicalities of a less hierarchical company is that you aren't necessarily going to have the position power to decree something or dictate something..."
This is actually the case at most BigCo. If you think otherwise, then you've bought into the window dressing."
I think that is hardly the case at most Big Co's.....Google is an exception but at most other cubicle farms your success as a coder heavily depends on your ability to take and execute orders from upper management, whatever they may be.
Ultimate spear meets ultimate shield? At most Big Co's, a project manager or line manager's success depends on ability to persuade others (beside them and under them) to do as they desire.
Comments
Some companies are aware of this. Google seems to actually teach[1] project managers about this, as recently summarazied by stcredzero[2]:
"A workable program for teaching technical people how to effectively manage others in specific technical contexts is probably one of the most potent things a company could have.
So much of the quality and productivity of a programming group depends on how well the group is managed. Despite this, the production of effective managers is often shockingly haphazard.
They are not going to do something for you just because of your title. You really have to make your case...
"One of the practicalities of a less hierarchical company is that you aren't necessarily going to have the position power to decree something or dictate something..."
This is actually the case at most BigCo. If you think otherwise, then you've bought into the window dressing."
[1] http://online.wsj.com/article/SB1000142405270230341040457746...
[2] http://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=4204150
I think that is hardly the case at most Big Co's.....Google is an exception but at most other cubicle farms your success as a coder heavily depends on your ability to take and execute orders from upper management, whatever they may be.
Ultimate spear meets ultimate shield? At most Big Co's, a project manager or line manager's success depends on ability to persuade others (beside them and under them) to do as they desire.
Is there any evidence that this (that is, relatively democratic decision-making as described) is the case at most BigCos?