M-shaped

It’s quite a while ago since the search for “T-shaped” people was replaced by the focus on “M-shaped” colleagues. For me, this change symbolizes the move from a complicated to a complex world.

A “T-shaped” developer refers to someone with broad expertise across multiple areas (the horizontal bar of the “T”) and deep expertise in one specific area (the vertical bar of the “T”). On the other hand, an “M-shaped” developer has expertise in multiple areas, represented by the multiple vertical bars of the “M,” indicating a broader skill set compared to the T-shaped developer.

In a complex environment, such as software development, an M-shaped developer offers several benefits. Firstly, they bring a diverse skill set to the table, allowing them to tackle a wider range of tasks and projects. This versatility enables them to adapt more easily to changing requirements and handle a variety of challenges effectively.

Secondly, an M-shaped developer fosters collaboration and innovation within the team. With expertise in multiple areas, they can bridge gaps between different disciplines and facilitate communication between team members with diverse backgrounds. This interdisciplinary approach promotes creativity and problem-solving, leading to more robust solutions and better outcomes for complex projects.

Additionally, an M-shaped developer is well-equipped to take on leadership roles within the team. Their broad skill set and understanding of various domains make them effective mentors and coaches, guiding team members and fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.

BUT: in this VUCA world the ability to learn new skills it is even more important than the current experience set! This requires a true learning culture in the whole company.