Engineering With Empathy (DeveloperWeek Global 2020)

Learn how engineering with empathy can create more collaborative and inclusive cultures, improve communication, and foster diverse teams that produce better products.

Key takeaways
  • Empathy is a skill that can be learned and applied to engineering practices to create more collaborative and inclusive cultures.
  • Engineering with empathy involves understanding the perspective of others, being non-judgmental, and being able to communicate effectively.
  • Empathy is not just about being a good person, it’s about building better products and creating space for diverse teams to thrive.
  • Code reviews are a prime opportunity to practice empathy in engineering, and being able to argue constructively is key.
  • Diverse teams are more productive and produce better products, and empathy is essential for building those teams.
  • Empathy involves not just hearing the words, but also the emotions and feelings behind them.
  • Leaders need to prioritize empathy and take concrete steps to create cultures of belonging.
  • Feedback and criticism need to be delivered in a way that is not only constructive, but also respectful and empathetic.
  • Technical communication needs to be clear and concise, and empathy can help engineers communicate technical concepts to non-technical people.
  • Engineering with empathy involves recognizing and addressing unconscious bias and systemic inequalities.
  • Empathy is not a one-time event, it’s a continuous process that requires daily practice and reflection.
  • The future of the remote workforce will require more empathy and active listening.
  • Feedback is crucial in engineering, and empathy is essential for delivering feedback that is both constructive and respectful.
  • Embracing empathy is not just a moral imperative, it’s a business imperative for creating successful products and teams.