Why Understanding Software Cycle Time Is Messy, Not Magic
Hacker NewsSaturday, June 7, 2025 at 9:03:28 PM
This piece dives into the often-overlooked complexity of measuring software development cycle time—the time it takes to go from an idea to a shipped feature. It argues that while many teams treat it as a straightforward metric, the reality is messy, with hidden variables like context-switching, dependencies, and team dynamics muddying the waters. The article (and its HN discussion) suggests that blindly optimizing for speed can backfire, and teams should focus on understanding the nuances instead of chasing magical shortcuts.
Editor’s Note: In an industry obsessed with efficiency, this story is a reality check. It matters because teams burning out from unrealistic deadlines or misaligned metrics might find relief in a more thoughtful approach. Plus, it’s a reminder that not everything in tech can be neatly quantified—sometimes, the mess is the point.
— Curated via WP Now’s
