How are software engineers objectively measured when problems span such large difficulty ranges and there are multiple ways to implement solutions?

Question

Always been curious how “workload” is assigned and estimated for software engineers.

In: 92

Answer 1

Nobody is objectively measured.

The concept of “objectively” measuring somebody’s contributions in the workplace was created in response to blatant unfairness and inequality. As managers and workers struggled with opacity in pay and increasingly large compensation packages for executives, many people demanded answers and clarity for evaluating performance and progress for raises and promotions.

Sure sometimes the metrics can make a lot of sense, especially in more concrete task-oriented work, but mostly this still serves the interests of capitalists and the ultra wealthy by reinforcing the idea that people shouldn’t be equal and providing a convenient pretense for paying executives exhorbitant amounts because of “performance metrics.”

This isn’t to say that no metrics should be used for gathering feedback and encouraging progress through promotions and raises. It’s just to say that they are mostly made-up and should not be considered complete nor infallible. Push back. Ask questions. Share information among co-workers. Unionize. Question executives and wealthy shareholders’ interests.