Guns, Lots of Guns: There Is No Silver Bullet • Lars Kruse • GOTO 2022

Discover the harsh realities of software development, where complexity is inherent and no single solution exists. Learn how to navigate the industry, acknowledging the need for human expertise, teamwork, and adaptability.

Key takeaways
  • Don’t expect a silver bullet to solve complex software development problems.
  • Complexity is inherent in software development and cannot be solved with a single solution or tool.
  • Automation and no-code tools can simplify the process, but don’t eliminate the need for human expertise.
  • Small teams and start-ups often have to reinvent the wheel because they don’t have access to established infrastructure or knowledge.
  • Many people in the industry are still learning and experimenting with new technologies and approaches.
  • The concept of “throwaway” software is not just for agile development, but can apply to any software development phase.
  • Conway’s Law states that the structure of the organization mirrors the structure of the software produced, and this can lead to inefficient and complex systems.
  • People in the industry often point fingers at their peers instead of recognizing and addressing the complexity of software development.
  • Much of the progress in software development has been made by individuals and small teams, rather than large corporations.
  • Many people in the industry are not enthusiastic about working in start-ups, and may prefer established companies with more stability and resources.
  • There is no one-size-fits-all solution for software development, and what works for one team or company may not work for another.
  • The industry is moving towards more automation, but still needs human expertise to properly utilize these tools.
  • Complexity is not something that can be solved overnight, and it may take decades or even centuries to fully understand and address.