[webproducers] Why managers will replace "web producers"

--- Katherine Gray <kat@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
> As we're hiring new producers and developing our training methodology, one of 
> our advisors has
> asked us to define what a good producer/project manager looks like. What are 
> the qualities and
> skills you all think define a good producer? 
> I'll start:

I think producer seems to be a code word for a
"manager who has the risks but not the power to
make change". I blame books like the "Mythical
Man Month" for the view of managers being equal
to programmers, or even in supportng roles. This
point of view played a direct role in many failed
dot.bomb projects.

Here is my post dot.bomb qualifications:

1. The ability to identify slackers and fire them.
2. The ability to smell BS a mile away.
3. Revolts against "not invented here".
4. If managing programmers, should have programmed
   in the past.
5. Attention to detail.
6. Can write worth a damn.
7. Can say "NO" but not piss off.
8. Knows how to research.
9. Knows how to say "I don't know the answer to that,
   but I'll find out."
10. Won't build a Ferrari when you need a Honda Civic.
11. Can explain the technical in plain English 
    sans buzz words but not be patronizing.
12. Can track a project without a "management program".
13. Can take good notes.
14. Proactively organizes, but not goldbricking.
15. Calls the client before the client calls them.
16. Understands the need for QA.
17. Understands "critical path".
18. Doesn't procrastinate.
19. Stops mission creep.
20. Get it in writing, put it in writing.

I submit the above is not a "producer" but is a 
classic description of a manager. I will never hire
a "web producer" or create a job with that description.
Like the job title "webmaster" what web producers did 
will evolve into different roles. 


 



=====
Michael James Pinto | http://www.vm.com | http://www.anime.com 

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