In the past few decades, the focus in enterprise software development has frequently shifted between prioritizing technology, methodologies, and human involvement as the key to success. We’ve witnessed various waves, such as the rise and evolution of agility, followed by a renewed emphasis on methodologies, and more recently, the emergence of technological trends like low-code/no-code platforms and artificial intelligence. These advancements are often accompanied by periods of reassessment and reality checks.
The COVID-19 pandemic also brought about significant transformations, particularly with the widespread shift to remote work, which has had a profound impact on both intra- and inter-team collaboration. Meanwhile, ongoing strategic debates continue regarding the choice between off-the-shelf software solutions versus custom development, and the reliance on internal versus external resources.
In this dynamic environment, we at MIKRUM believe it is essential to recognize a crucial factor that is becoming increasingly significant: the human factor. We are confident that the role of the ‘human factor’ is already increasingly significant today and will continue to grow in importance in the future, a view supported by both our experience and the literature.
Of course, methodologies and quality assurance remain vital. In today’s turbulent environment, it is crucial to prepare as thoroughly as possible for both predictable and unforeseen events. This might include adapting to changing goals, maintaining up-to-date documentation in an ever-evolving environment, or managing staff turnover, which is an inevitable aspect of long-term projects.
However, the importance of the human factor cannot be overstated. Below are several key areas where its impact is particularly evident:
Increasing Complexity: The complexity of tasks and projects continues to grow, making it challenging to operate effectively with employees confined to rigid, narrowly defined roles. The involvement of proactive and motivated employees who are willing to tackle atypical situations—those that fall outside their official job descriptions—can significantly influence the success of an organization or specific project.
Problem-Solving and Resilience: Problem-solving, closely tied to resilience, is another critical area. While methodologies and quality assurance provide a structured framework, every experienced leader knows that no system can offer complete protection against unexpected challenges. In such cases, team spirit and exceptional individual performances can be decisive in bringing processes back on track.
Learning Ability: Flexibility and the ability to learn are becoming increasingly important. In a rapidly changing business and technological environment, it is crucial for teams to adapt quickly. In the past, it was advantageous to have team members who could introduce fresh ideas, innovations, and the latest industry developments into the workspace. Today, this ability is not just a “nice-to-have” but a fundamental requirement, ensuring that the team can adapt and grow together.
Communication: Effective communication is more critical than ever. In the past, teams often relied on a “resident genius” to solve unexpected problems. While these exceptional talents are still valuable, the ability to communicate effectively—whether it’s asking questions on platforms like Stack Overflow, consulting a colleague, or reaching out to a partner company—is often more crucial. This approach reduces bottlenecks and ensures that problems are addressed more quickly through various channels. Moreover, many issues do not require complex problem-solving routines but rather clear communication to clarify misunderstandings and better understand or articulate needs.
In conclusion, while the human factor is often seen as a “soft” and difficult-to-measure aspect of enterprise software development, it is crucial—and increasingly so. Most of these examples may seem obvious to thoughtful leaders, but that’s exactly why it’s worth highlighting them so that we do not treat them as a half-hidden, resolved topic. It’s important to periodically recognize and emphasize the significance of human attitudes, values, and soft skills alongside technological and methodological considerations. These human elements are indispensable components of success in the IT industry.
