The Myth of Specialists Being Best

– in Software Development –

Many companies – especially in Germany – have a strong preference for specialists. The belief is that deep expertise in a narrow field leads to the best results. But is this always true?

Why Generalists Are Overlooked

Generalists have a broad skill set, allowing them to adapt and contribute across multiple areas. Yet, many companies prioritize specialists, potentially missing out on:

• Startups’ Need for Versatility – Small teams thrive on developers who can handle everything from backend logic to frontend design.
• Consultancies’ Demand for Adaptability – Clients come with diverse challenges, requiring developers who can shift gears quickly.
• Agile Teams’ Focus on Flexibility – Success in Agile depends on team members who can contribute across different aspects of a project.
• Product Companies’ Breadth of Needs – Building multiple products requires developers who can operate across platforms and technologies.

Are Specialists Always the Best Choice?

While specialists bring deep expertise, they may struggle when projects require adaptability or interdisciplinary collaboration. Companies that favor only specialists may face challenges such as:

• Silos and Rigid Structures – Over-specialization can create bottlenecks, making it harder to pivot or innovate.
• Higher Costs – Hiring multiple specialists for narrow roles can be costly compared to versatile generalists.
• Limited Problem-Solving – Complex software challenges often need broad, system-wide thinking that generalists excel at.

Rethinking the Balance

The best teams aren’t just specialists – they combine both specialists and generalists.

Instead of dismissing generalists, companies should recognize their strategic value in innovation, flexibility, and cross-functional collaboration.

? Are companies too obsessed with specialists?

? Should we rethink the value of generalists in software development?

Share your thoughts in the comments!

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