People and Teams

People and Teams

People and Teams Stories
The Dangers of Digital DistractionsIt's crazy that people can’t put their devices down long enough to drive, or even watch where they’re going. And aside from dangers, cellphones and social media also can be time sucks. Digital distractions have become bad enough that there's now a Center for Internet and Technology Addiction. Are you hooked?
Finding the Truth in Testing through Folk Tales and Fairy StoriesWhen we test, we build fictions in our minds. We make thought experiments about what the product or system might do, what we could expect the results of an action to be, what they should be, and how they might go wrong. Isabel Evans shows us why you're never too old for folk tales and fairy stories.
It's All About Prioritization

"No one is busy in this world. It is all about priorities." In almost everything we do, prioritization is the key to surviving in today’s fast-paced world. Prioritization is particularly relevant in the software industry right now because being agile is the latest mantra for success.

The Benefits of Sleeping on the JobTaking naps has numerous benefits, including increased alertness, enhanced performance, and reduced mistakes and accidents. With advantages like that, it's no wonder some companies are designating "nap rooms" in the office and letting employees get some shut-eye during work hours! Would you nap at work?
Switching Roles, Embracing Change, and Staying RelevantAgeism in the tech industry does exist. But while some conceptions tend to be true for many established employees, such as their being less willing to relocate or travel, the stereotype that they are stuck in their ways doesn't have to be. You absolutely can—and should—stay current and continue adding value.
Matt Heusser
Necessary Skill Sets for the Agile Test Team

In making the move to agile practices, testing teams are finding that a specific skill set—or more than one—is necessary in order to take advantage of the benefits of agile methodologies. Sanjay Zalavadia looks at the skill sets and information that teams need before an agile project can begin.

Learning On: Making Time for New Software Skills

Ongoing learning will help you remain relevant as the industry evolves, as well as be more productive at your job—but it can be hard to find the time. Steve Berczuk gives you some tips on how you can fit in education, what you can do to improve your skills, and what pitfalls to be sure to avoid.

How to Avoid Working in a Dysfunctional OrganizationWhen relationships in a company are adversarial—even within departments and teams—it can stress you out and wear you down. No one wants to work in a dysfunctional organization, but how can you spot one? Before you accept a job at a new company, try to learn about its culture—its norms, values, and practices.