Why Senior Engineers Prefer Simplicity
The logic behind simple solutions over complex systems.
1Why Senior Engineers Prefer Simplicity
As engineers gain seniority, they tend to simplify their systems. This is contrary to what one might expect. Early in their careers, output increases rapidly, and complex systems are built. However, as experience grows, code, architecture, and systems become simpler. Understanding the reasons behind this shift allows for a more conscious management of the process.
2Simplicity Is Not the Goal, It's the Outcome
Directly aiming for simplicity is often ineffective. Instead, understanding why complexity decreases is more important. Senior engineers target the fundamental factors that reduce complexity, achieving simplicity organically. This approach makes systems more sustainable and understandable.
3The Benefits of Simple Code
Simple code is easier for new engineers to understand and more adaptable for future changes. Modifying a complex system is much harder than modifying a simple one. Therefore, simple code saves both time and resources in the long run.
4Lessons from the Refactor Process
Going through a major refactor of a complex system teaches engineers to make different decisions. This process is shaped by practical experiences rather than theoretical knowledge. Senior engineers make better decisions as a result of such experiences and avoid repeating similar processes.
5Reducing Abstractions
Senior engineers tend to reduce long chains of abstraction that are only used in one place. Such abstractions require a large context load even for small changes. Reducing abstractions makes the system more manageable.
6Determining Risk Tolerance
Early in their careers, engineers hedge against all possible risks. However, as experience grows, they learn that some risks are acceptable. This has a significant impact on factors like speed and onboarding. Senior engineers know which risks can be taken.
7When to Break Best Practices
Best practices do not always offer the right solution. For example, better naming or tighter scoping might be more effective than creating an abstraction. Senior engineers know when to break best practices.
8Reducing Surface Area
The common thread in all these changes made by senior engineers is reducing surface area. Maintaining fewer things allows for more focus, leading to better execution of responsibilities. Whether these behaviors follow seniority or cause it remains a topic of debate.
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