SXSW: Jacks of all Trades or Masters of One?

This seminar was overview of how Generalist and Specialists fit into an organization. I was typing quite a bit during this one, so I'll leave you with the notes...

Venn diagram of Technology, Business, & Design: Specialists vs. Generalists

http://elliotjaystocks.com/blog/web-designers-who-cant-code/

Breadth vs. Depth

• Specialists are the perfect tool the the specific job
• Generalist takes care of what's needed

• A Specialist can keep up on current trends and techniques
• Generalists can ensure that execution matches intention. When working with others communication is key. Generalists are good at communication.

• A Specialist's thinking isn't limited by external constraints. They'll think outside the box (though inside they speciality)
• A Generalist can see the big picture in a project. Terry Irwin quote.

• Specialists can take advantage of specific market opportunities (SEO, UX, etc.)
• Generalists can easily pivot in their careers.

For Yourself:

• Do you feel the need to be the absolute best at something? Yes, specialist. No, generalists.
• Do you like handling things from start to finish? Yes, generalist. No, specialist.
• Do you like working alone on projects? Yes, generalist. No, specialist.
• Can you learn and understand foreign concepts quickly? Yes, generalist. No, Specialist.
• Are you competitive & a perfectionist? Yes, specialist. No, generalist.
• Do you want to work on the new, hip, sexy project? Yes, generalist. No, specialist.
• Do you need much variety in your career? Yes, generalist. No, specialist.
• Are you good at knowing when you're in over your head? Yes, generalist. No, specialist.
• Is job security a priority to you? No, generalist. Yes, specialist.

Team:

• Are you small? Yes, generalist. No, specialist.
• Do you have a decent process in place? Yes, specialist. No, generalist.
• Is that process more agile than waterfall? Yes, generalist. No, specialist.
• Is amazing execution you top priority? Yes, specialist. No, generalist.
• Can you keep a specialist busy for the length of the job? No, generalist. Yes, specialist.
• Do you need someone who can pitch in in various ways? Yes, generalist. No, specialist.
• Are you hiring a manager, exec, or very senior role? Yes, generalist. No, specialist.

Open question to anyone reading. Can a specialist manage a generalist?

Is a multi-specialist a generalist?

Moral of the story that began to come out during the questions: It doesn't really matter. It's all in how you see yourself.

#jacksofalltrades