David Grizzanti, speaking at InfoQ Dev Summit Boston, outlines an anthropology-inspired approach to shaping engineering culture. Rather than dramatic overhauls, he advocates diagnosing culture by studying five artifacts: tools, processes, behaviors, values, and people. Understanding the spectrum of rewarded vs. punished behaviors reveals true organizational values. Culture change should be gradual — model desired behaviors, build allies, start with one or two key practices, and use influence at the staff+ level to amplify psychological safety and inclusion. Leaders, whether ICs or managers, set the tone through consistent example and mentorship.
Sort: