Skip to content
RJJ Software Jamie Taylor · fractional CTOBook a call
Menu
News Services Case studies Writing About

Writing

Essays on technology leadership, AI adoption, architecture and developer experience, published continuously since 2019.

165 pieces · 2019–2026

The image shows a wooden table with a laptop on top. The laptop has an open lid displaying a graphical user interface, and there is a mug of coffee next to it. The table appears to be in a café or similar setting, indicated by the presence of other tables, chairs, and decorations. In the background, there's a window with blinds partially drawn, and outside, one can see what looks like an urban environment with buildings and trees. The atmosphere suggests a relaxed, casual workspace. 20 Mar 2026 · 7 min Securing Your Legacy and Future in Software Development: More Lessons from “Alice & Bob Learn Secure Coding”

Explore more essential security principles for software development, drawing wisdom from Tanya Janca's book, 'Alice & Bob Learn …

This is an image of a well-arranged dining area inside a restaurant. There are several wooden tables with chairs, set up neatly and covered with place settings including white plates and napkins, indicating that the establishment is prepared for service. The floor is made of wood planks, adding to the warm ambiance of the room. On the right side of the photo, there's a counter with a glass top, possibly serving as a bar or additional dining area. The ceiling has an exposed structure with beams and ductwork, contributing to the industrial chic aesthetic. The overall setting suggests a casual yet stylish dining environment. 13 Mar 2026 · 15 min Too Many Waiters, Not Enough Cooks: Why Your Software Team Might Be Manager-Heavy

Part 1: Recognising the pattern of management-heavy software teams and understanding the hidden costs of excessive overhead.

The image shows a desk with a computer setup. On the left side, there is a monitor displaying what appears to be a code editor with lines of code and syntax highlighting. The screen is set against a dark background with a blue hue, possibly from ambient lighting or a digital backdrop. The coding environment suggests a focus on programming or software development. To the right, there is a desk with a computer setup that includes a keyboard and mouse. On top of the desk, there's a red light emanating from what seems to be a fan or light source, illuminating the workspace and creating a striking contrast against the darker elements in the image. The overall impression is of a modern, technology-focused environment, likely that of a developer or someone who works with computers and software. The composition of the image is split diagonally, with the left side showing the computer screen, and the right side showing the physical workspace. There are no people in the image, emphasizing the focus on the technical setup rather than individuals.' 6 Mar 2026 · 7 min Building a Secure Foundation: Lessons from “Alice & Bob Learn Secure Coding” for Modern Tech Teams

Learn key application security principles from 'Alice & Bob Learn Secure Coding'! Discover secure defaults, backend validation & …

The image is a creative and surreal visual metaphor. It depicts a laptop keyboard partially obscured by a piece of paper that has an opening in the middle revealing a white computer keyboard with black keys, which is the focal point of the photo. There are two revealed keys, 'A' and 'I' The background appears to be a cardboard surface with a hole cut out, allowing the viewer to see through it and focus on the keyboard, creating a peek-a-boo effect. This artistic composition suggests themes of secrecy, information technology, or perhaps even the idea of 'keying in' or accessing something hidden beneath the surface. The use of everyday objects like a laptop and cardboard in this way adds an element of whimsy and intrigue to the image. 27 Feb 2026 · 14 min Beyond Verification: Building Teams That Use AI Responsibly

Practical strategies for CTOs and teams to ensure AI enhances rather than replaces understanding

This is a photo of an assortment of Scrabble tiles spelling out the word 'emotion' in the center. The tiles are placed on a surface that appears to be wooden, creating a circular arrangement around the central word. The background is blurred and not distinctly clear, but it seems to suggest a table or platform setting. The overall image conveys a theme of vocabulary, language, or perhaps emotional expression as indicated by the word 'emotion.' 20 Feb 2026 · 6 min Level Up Your Leadership: Key Insights from ‘Emotional Intelligence Habits’ for the Modern Tech Workplace

This post highlights key insights from Travis Bradberry's 'Emotional Intelligence Habits' and their relevance to tech leadership. …

A red wireframe of the word 'NOISE' on a black background. In the centre of the 'O' are the words 'QUITE LIVES INSIDE' in white text. 13 Feb 2026 · 9 min The Amplification Paradox: When AI Tools Amplify the Wrong Things

AI amplifies both great engineers and those lacking understanding. What does this mean for code quality?

The image shows a tranquil scene with a single, tall pine tree standing prominently in the foreground. The tree is silhouetted against the sky, its top reaching towards the horizon. Behind the tree, there is a gentle slope that gradually descends into a flatter surface, suggesting it could be the edge of a hill or embankment. The sun is low on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape and creating a beautiful gradient of colors in the sky. The lighting suggests either early morning or late afternoon, given the position of the sun. There are no visible texts or markings within the image that provide additional context or information. The style of the photograph is realistic, capturing the scene with natural colors and light. 6 Feb 2026 · 5 min Finding Strength in Vulnerability: Lessons for Tech Leaders from ‘Rising Strong’

This blog post explores the relevance of Dr. Brené Brown's 'Rising Strong' to the modern workplace, particularly for those leading …

In the image, two engineers are engrossed in a diagram out on a table. Both people are pointing at different areas on the diagram with their fingers. They both seem to be discussing or analysing the information presented on the diagram. The focus and engagement of the individuals suggest that this could be a professional or strategic discussion related to planning, navigation, or decision-making based on the diagram's contents. 30 Jan 2026 · 5 min The Engineer Title: When Software Teams Aren’t Actually Engineering

- This blog post argues that many organisations misuse the "software engineer" title for developers who don't practice actual …

The image depicts a serene landscape with lush green trees and foliage filling the scene. In the foreground, in silhouette are six people on a hike, they are hiking uphill. We cannot make out many details about them, other than there are six of them. In the background, there is a clear blue sky that extends to the horizon. A few clouds are scattered across the sky, adding depth and texture to the image. The overall composition of the image suggests a peaceful and natural setting. 23 Jan 2026 · 9 min Leading with Empathy: Lessons from “Leaders Eat Last” for the Modern Workplace

- This blog post explores the core principles of Simon Sinek's "Leaders Eat Last" and how they are particularly relevant to …

A close-up photo of a part closed laptop. The photo is taken from the profile of the laptop, and there is a light reflection of the screen (which is blurred) showing on the keys, giving the keys a slight ethereal glow. 16 Jan 2026 · 13 min Stop Treating Pentests Like Final Exams: Why Security Can’t Be Your Last Step

A pentest that finds critical vulnerabilities hasn't done its job; it has reported the failure of everything upstream of it. How …

A lone figure stands silhouetted against a majestic mountainous landscape, bathed in the soft light of dawn. The person appears to be contemplating the panorama below, as if lost in thought amidst nature's grandeur. The photo is divided diagonally into two sections; on one side is a rich green valley under a cloudy sky, while the other showcases rugged mountains and distant hills, suggesting a sense of solitude and vastness. 9 Jan 2026 · 7 min Leading with Heart and Mind: Lessons from ‘Dare to Lead’ for the Modern Workplace

This blog post explores the relevance of Brené Brown's "Dare to Lead" for leaders in the technology sector. Drawing on key quotes …

The image features number '2025' prominently displayed. Behind the number is a black background that fades into a gradient of white and black, giving a sense of depth. Overlaying the number are sparkling elements that resemble stars or confetti, adding a celebratory or festive feel to the image. The digital display has a metallic or chrome finish, which enhances its modern and sleek appearance. 31 Dec 2025 · 6 min From Strength to Strength: 2025 Wrapped

As we close out 2025, we’re reflecting on a year that exceeded our expectations. From international trade missions and three …

Next step

Bring me the decision you keep deferring

A discovery call costs nothing and commits you to nothing. You'll leave with an honest read on your situation and a clear next step, whether or not that step involves me.

Book a discovery call