While success can have different interpretations, one of the keys to achieving it sustainably is having a Technical Leader.
But, is it really indispensable? The short answer is no; a project can move forward and even achieve success without a Technical Leader. However, that success could be fleeting, and over time, difficult problems may arise—problems that a Technical Leader could have prevented.
The Figure of the Technical Leader: Much More Than a Role
Imagine a sports team without a coach: they might win a game, but long-term consistency would be at risk. Similarly, a Technical Leader in a software project not only provides technical vision but also guides developers and other team members toward a common goal, ensuring that the vision translates into high-quality deliverables.
Key Functions of the Technical Leader
The role of a Technical Leader can vary depending on the nature of the client, the business, and the resources available. Here are some of the essential tasks they must perform:
- Promote the use of modern and mature technologies: This avoids unnecessary rewriting of already tested and functional code due to updates in libraries.
- Establish good practices: Works with the team to define and maintain good practices throughout the application lifecycle.
- Manage knowledge transfer: Facilitates the integration of new team members without compromising project continuity.
- Resolve social issues: Collaborates with the Human Resources team to maintain a positive and satisfying work environment.
- Lead technical planning: Is the primary voice in the planning and development of new features.
- Ensure code security: Establishes and supervises the use of tools to ensure the code is secure.
- Approve code reviews: Acts as the final approver in code reviews, ensuring it meets established standards.
Consequences of Not Having a Technical Leader
The absence of a Technical Leader can generate various problems that compromise the quality and sustainability of the project:
- Poor Technical Design: It can result in data synchronization errors, unnecessary increases in network traffic, and a less efficient application.
- Performance Issues: The lack of clear technical direction can lead to overall performance problems in the application.
- Lack of Scalability: Without proper guidance, the application may not be able to scale efficiently with the growth in the number of users.
- Difficulties in Implementing New Features: Adding new features may require rewriting large portions of code, which is inefficient and costly.
The Technical Leader: The Code Guardian
Ultimately, the figure of the Technical Leader is similar to that of a parent within the project: they are the guardian of best practices and the established conventions from the outset. Without their presence, the code can become unreadable and difficult to maintain, complicating the integration of new team members and putting the project’s continuity at risk.
The Technical Leader is, without a doubt, a fundamental piece in software development. Their presence ensures that the project progresses in an organized, sustainable manner, aligned with best practices, which ultimately translates into greater success for the client.
Julian Haeberli, Software Developer at Baufest.