Blog

Stanford's CS146S: The Modern Software Developer

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An overview of Stanford's forward-looking course on AI-assisted software development and its core principles.

On Leading a Room Full of Experts

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A summary of Ibrahim Diallo's article on the role of a leader in a team of specialists, focusing on translation, goal-orientation, and context-setting.

Scaling Python Data Science: Lessons from Coiled

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A summary of a Talk Python podcast episode discussing the trade-offs of scaling data science workflows, focusing on Coiled's approach to environment replication and productionisation.

Timeless Leadership Principles from Jocko Podcast 251

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An exploration of foundational leadership principles from General Bruce C. Clarke's 'Guidelines for the Leader and Commander', as discussed on the Jocko Podcast.

Understanding the Five Doors of Influence

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A framework from Andi Roberts for influencing others by understanding their preferred communication style, from logic to inspiration.

From Code Generation to AI-Native: Insights from the Front Lines

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An analysis of a panel discussion with Anthropic, Trae, and Replit, connecting their best practices for AI-native development to the evolving role of the software engineer.

Revisiting Vibe Coding: An Analysis of AWS's Practical Guide

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An analysis of the AWS guide on vibe coding, comparing its structured, tool-centric approach with earlier conclusions on agentic workflows and human-led architecture.

You Should Delete Tests

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A summary of André Arko's argument that tests should be deleted when they no longer increase confidence, with a focus on flaky, high-maintenance, or irrelevant tests.

A Practical Guide to Coding with LLMs: Dos and Don'ts

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A structured approach to using AI coding assistants, moving from contemplative prompting to scalable agentic workflows.

Is AI the Next Microprocessor or the Next Shipping Container?

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An analysis of whether AI will create new wealth like the microprocessor or primarily benefit incumbents and customers like shipping containerisation.

Working with AI Wizards and the Need for Explainability

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Ethan Mollick's 'wizard' analogy for AI highlights a growing problem: as models become more powerful, their processes become more opaque, creating a critical need for explainability.

Contrasting Memory Philosophies: Claude's Explicit Tools vs. ChatGPT's Automatic Profiles

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A look at the different approaches to memory in Claude and ChatGPT, highlighting the trade-offs between transparency and convenience.

A Structured Methodology for Disciplined AI Software Development

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A summary of the 'Disciplined AI Software Development' methodology, which provides a framework for managing AI collaboration in coding projects.

The Tension Between Legibility and Efficiency in Software Companies

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Exploring the concept of legibility and how large organisations often prioritise it over real efficiency, based on an article by Sean Goedecke.

Frameworks as Mental Handrails for Navigating Complexity

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A summary of Mike Fisher's article on frameworks as cognitive tools, with reflections on their application in TOGAF and Systems Engineering.

Where's the Shovelware? The AI Coding Claims Conundrum

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An analysis of why AI coding tools haven't led to a surge in software production, despite widespread adoption and bold productivity claims.