+++ title = "Where/How to find good resources for best practices - articles/how-tos/tutorials/books/blogs" date = 2024-09-15 +++ ```markdown # Where to Find Quality Resources for Best Practices in Engineering Management Transitioning from a developer or team lead role to an Engineering Manager (EM) can be a challenging journey. As a developer, the road to acquiring new knowledge seemed straightforward; a quick Google search would yield countless quality resources—articles, tutorials, books, and blogs—on best practices, frameworks, and tools. However, stepping into the EM role often feels like wandering into a vast desert of information with few oases of practical guidance. In this post, I'll share my experiences and insights on where to find quality resources for engineering management best practices, along with some valuable advice from peers in the field. ## The Challenge of Finding Quality Resources As an EM, I've found it increasingly difficult to locate the practical guides and actionable insights I need. Often, the content available online is either overly simplistic or filled with affiliate links that lead to questionable products. Many articles repeat high-level overviews without diving into the specifics of implementation. Some topics I've struggled to find substantial guidance on include: - Structuring Jira for Scrum: Best practices for managing tasks and sub-tasks. - Managing the lifecycle of bugs effectively. - Understanding reporting and metrics, including: - What reports to generate. - How to interpret those reports and take action. - Tracking Epics and their progress. - Building effective dashboards for project health. - Working with estimates and improving accuracy. While I understand that management isn't a hard science like software development, I often feel lost at the basics. Finding seasoned insights from experienced Engineering and Project Managers can be incredibly beneficial for navigating these challenges. ## Where to Find Quality Resources ### 1. Books and Online Courses While there are countless books on management, not every book will suit your specific needs. Look for recommendations from reputable sources or peers who have faced similar challenges. Online platforms like Coursera, edX, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses tailored to engineering management. These courses often feature real-world scenarios that can provide valuable context. ### 2. Peer Discussions and Networking Engaging with your peers is one of the most effective ways to gather insights. Attend industry conferences, join local meetups, or participate in online forums. Speaking to fellow EMs and business partners can help you uncover tools and practices that have worked well for them. Don't hesitate to ask about their experiences; you might find relatable challenges and innovative solutions. ### 3. Newsletters and Subscriptions Subscribing to newsletters can be an excellent way to receive curated, vetted content directly in your inbox. Consider newsletters that focus on management, leadership, and agile practices. For example, the *Humanware* newsletter (humanware.substack.com) is a great resource for developing soft skills, which are crucial for EMs. ### 4. YouTube Channels and Webinars Many conferences host recorded sessions on YouTube, featuring talks from experienced professionals. Watching these videos can provide valuable insights and expose you to different perspectives on engineering management. Additionally, look for webinars that discuss specific management challenges and solutions. ### 5. Learning by Doing A critical piece of advice that resonated with me is to learn by doing. Start with a lean approach, experiment with different processes, and iterate based on feedback from your team. For example, if you're unsure how to structure your Scrum board, try various layouts, gather feedback, and adjust accordingly. This approach allows you to develop a process that aligns with your team's unique dynamics. ### 6. Develop Your Soft Skills As an EM, it’s essential to shift your focus from technical skills to understanding people. Many EMs make the mistake of continuing to think like software engineers, neglecting the human aspect of their role. Devote time to enhancing your soft skills—communication, empathy, conflict resolution, and team dynamics. These skills are vital for creating a cohesive and motivated team. ## Conclusion The transition to Engineering Management can be daunting, especially when it comes to finding quality resources and practical advice. However, by leveraging a combination of books, peer discussions, curated newsletters, and a commitment to learning through experience, you can navigate these challenges more effectively. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one team may not work for another, so remain flexible and open to adapting your approach. Embrace the journey, and don't hesitate to reach out to your network for support and guidance. Together, we can build a stronger community of engineering leaders. --- ```

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