Managing Humans: Biting and Humorous Tales of a Software Engineering Manager by Michael Lopp

Software engineering manager and prolific author Michael Lopp has had a lot of experiences over the course of his career that can be encapsulated in his book, Managing Humans: Biting and Humorous Tales of a Software Engineering Manager. Lopp takes readers through his experience in leading and managing teams, from the struggles and headaches to the funny, memorable moments. The book is a great resource for anyone looking for insight into how to lead and manage a software engineering team.

The book is divided into 20 chapters, ranging in topics from hiring the right people to managing a toxic environment. In the opening chapter, Lopp discusses the importance of hiring engineers that are right for the job and the right fit for the team. He advocates for being brave and taking risks to bring in engineers that may be unconventional, but have the attributes that are essential for success.

In subsequent chapters, Lopp goes into detail on tons of topics related to software engineering management. He talks about mastering the art of delegation, which involves the balancing the right amount of process and authority, with just enough guidance to help team members own their work and their successes. Another essential point is the need to create good tools to enable engineers to work more efficiently and effectively. To do this, Lopp emphasizes the importance of understanding how computer systems work and what types of tools work best for each situation.

One of the biggest challenges for software engineering managers is learning to manage conflict. In this regard, Lopp offers insights into how to create a conflict-resolving environment, where it’s safe for everyone to express their feelings and disagreements. He also recommends an “ignite the spark” approach to building a strong team spirit among members.

Throughout the book, Lopp also offers helpful tips and practices to help manage the work-life balance of software engineers. He delves into one of his main ideas - that performance over the long-term should always be prioritized over short-term speed. He emphasizes the value of providing time and space for engineers to reflect and recover when needed.

Finally, what makes this book enjoyable is Lopp’s lighthearted and often humorous writing style. He relates personal stories and anecdotes, giving readers a glimpse into his experience of managing teams over the years. With his signature wit, he manages to make a challenging subject like software engineering management both informative and entertaining.

Overall, Managing Humans: Biting and Humorous Tales of a Software Engineering Manager is an essential resource for anyone in software engineering management. It serves as a comprehensive resource that provides insights, tips and advice based on Lopp’s experiences, allowing readers to plunge into the challenges of the role and discover what works best for them.