1 What is a lead developer?

So you want upward mobility in your career as a developer? The lead developer role may be for you. If you’ve researched the lead developer role or are a newly appointed lead developer, then you’ve probably encountered resources that focus on the technical expertise you must achieve before being hired for this role. However, the title “lead developer” includes the word “lead,” and you must have a combination of both technical and leadership skills.

A lead developer, also known as a technical lead, is a senior-level software developer who takes on additional responsibilities within a development team. The lead developer is often responsible for guiding and mentoring other team members, making technical decisions, and coordinating the development team’s work. They represent the development team and work with project managers to prioritize development tasks. The lead developer may also play a key role in the planning and execution of software projects and may be involved in the management of the team and the development process. In my experience, the role of a lead developer varies in different types of organizations and cultures, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach.

1.1 Who can be a lead developer

1.1.1 Who this book is for

1.1.2 Reviewing top industries for lead developers

1.1.3 Being a successful lead developer

1.2 Lead developer tasks

1.2.1 Leading the development team

1.2.2 Working with project teams

1.2.3 Communicating with clients and stakeholders

1.2.4 Setting development standards

1.2.5 Building technical architecture

1.3 Lead developer expectations

1.3.1 Providing team support

1.3.2 Forming working relationships

1.3.3 Being a leader

1.4 Case study

1.4.1 What was your first experience as a lead developer?

1.4.2 What did you enjoy the most as a lead developer?

1.4.3 How did your experience as a lead developer set you up for success in your current job?

Summary