Tension Between Product & Engineering Teams

In this episode, Matt Watson and Tommy Forstrom discuss the dynamics between engineering and product teams, exploring the friction that often exists due to misaligned incentives and communication gaps. They emphasize the importance of collaboration and understanding between these teams to create a cohesive product development environment.

The conversation also delves into the roles of CTOs and CPOs, highlighting the need for product-minded leadership in tech companies. Ultimately, they stress the necessity of fostering a culture where developers are engaged in the product process, leading to better outcomes for both the team and the customers.

Takeaways

Misaligned incentives often create friction between engineering and product teams.

Developers should be involved in the product planning process.

Customer focus is essential for both engineering and product teams.

Leadership alignment is crucial for reducing tension between teams.

A single executive overseeing product and engineering can improve collaboration.

Healthy tension is often a euphemism for deeper issues within teams.

Developers need to understand the business context of their work.

The role of CTO should evolve to include product leadership.

CPOs and CTOs can coexist but should have clear responsibilities.

Creating a cohesive team culture starts from the top.

Sound Bites

"It's not a linear journey."

"We have to set the tone from the top down."

"We need owners, we need people to own things."

Chapters

00:00 Engineering Teams vs. Product Teams

21:47 The Role of CTO vs. CPO

30:12 Building a Cohesive Team Culture