Codurance Talks Episode 35: Expert, T-shaped or Generalist

Are you a jack of all trades? Or perhaps a master of one? Or maybe you’re not content with having deep knowledge of just one? 

In episode 35 of our Codurance Talks podcast series, we explore three different metaphors used to describe the skills and capabilities of people in the workforce. 

Peter Street, James Hughes and Laurence Lord, Software Craftspeople at Codurance formed the panel to discuss their experience of 'Expert, T-shaped and Generalist' in the context of software engineering.

Hosted by Kirsten Osborn, Codurance Regional Director, the discussion covers:

• What do we mean by ‘generalist’, ‘T-shaped’ and ‘expert/specialist’ in the context of software engineering roles?
• What made you choose the path you went down?
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of specialising or remaining more of a generalist?
• What advice would you give someone who is considering whether to be a specialist or generalist?
• How would you advise someone to go about switching shape?
• Do you think we’re becoming more accepting in the tech industry of different shapes and squiggly careers?