23% of startups fail because of the lack of proper team organization. This is even more true for the tech teams. Poor tech team management can result in bad team performance and a poorly executed product, which, in most cases, is the difference between success and failure for businesses.
What are the key principles and trends of managing tech teams?
Tech teams management: best practices
Don’t force developers to be managers
An efficient manager knows the main talents of every member of the team, and they know how to utilize them the best. At the same time, turning developers into managers is wasteful. The fact that they know the industry and are professionals will not necessarily make them a good manager and leader.
Let everyone do what they like and grow the way they want. No need to force anyone down a professional path they don’t want to go. With everyone’s talents used expertly, the project will be as successful as possible.
Ask the right questions
- What do you need to be at your most productive?
- How are you feeling?
- Are you challenged by your project?
- What are your goals for the future?
These are the main questions most tech specialists will have the answers for. Their only problem — no one asks them.
To communicate with the tech team members and direct their talents and skills into the right places, the manager needs to understand their aspirations, plans, and challenges.
Asking the right questions can help streamline communication between the tech team, the management, and the clients, which will result in smooth collaboration and quality product.
Reward problem-solving
Professionals working in development and QA love solving issues and destroying roadblocks. Reward their problem-solving in a way beneficial to the team as a whole and to every separate professional personally — monetary bonuses, recognition, special merch, etc. In fact, 47% of professionals say professional growth is the best reward for their effort and achievements.
The system will additionally boost the team’s morale and provide more ground for collaboration. Establish programs and let the team know you support their process no matter what.
Set the right goals
Professionals working in a trusting environment report 74% less stress, 50% higher productivity, and 40% less burnout.
Micromanagement and control, on the other hand, are considered to be the worst traits a manager can have. Constant and persistent control and monitoring can lower the team’s productivity and become a reason for high turnover.
97% of professionals state effective and open communication impacts the quality of their everyday tasks. Building communication and work processes around this knowledge will result in an effective and pleasant work environment and lead to fast results.
Promote trust and openness
Extreme programming, Scrum, Chrystal, or Kanban — however the team chooses to organize and track their progress, one thing should be constant — there should always be goals and deadlines. Without them, the team might stray away from tasks and will have to rethink their approach altogether.
35% of professionals say being under-recognized for their success has a negative impact on their productivity. 78% say they would work harder if their effort was recognized by management. Make setting goals and celebrating the team’s accomplishments a tradition. This will provide additional motivation, boost morale, and help retain the professionals.
Managing a team of developers is a task that requires a deep understanding of the industry and personal connection with every member of the team. A good manager sets goals, makes sure everyone knows what they are, and provides everyone with the means to achieve them.
These are the principles we at Outstaff Your Team use actively when providing Employer of Record Services and managing our clients’ teams. If you want us to handle your tech team, write to us at [email protected]. We’ll be happy to help you.
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