3 ways of developing the mind to help develop new digital systems

Originally published on Adur & Worthing Councils — Our Stories, Your Councils, 20th August 2018

Just in the way we use continual improvement to develop digital systems at work, we shouldn’t forget about ourselves. Do we continually improve and iterate our own minds and skills?

This week I’ve been thinking about ways I strive to learn new skills and pushing myself to learn more. I’m hoping that I can inspire some of you to do the same.

I’m writing my blog today from WordCamp, a software development conference in Brighton. I’ve come here with the aim of honing some existing skills. However the first talk of the day was about mindfulness and reducing stress from our hectic lives. What a great start to the day — to learn something completely new that I can take further in future. That’s why I think it’s important to go to at least a couple of conferences each year.

Another way to increase personal development that I’ve only just discovered are ‘meetups’. Last night I was at the Worthing Digital group for a social meetup with new friends, discussing and overcoming any issues we have with projects (and enjoying a couple of drinks). It’s really interesting to hear about how other people work and learn about other technologies and their experiences.

The night before I was back in Brighton at another meetup group with Ministry of Testing. This was a really energetic talk and workshop about software testing. Something I’m keen to learn more techniques about and share with the team I work with.

I also like to broaden my knowledge into other fields at work. Earlier that evening, we had an upgraded internet connection installed at Worthing Town Hall. While the technicalities of the install aren’t covered by my role, I was involved in testing — I volunteered to work later so that I could learn about what was involved and how the process is managed.

At the beginning of the week I also finished reading (well, listening) to a huge book. Yes, a great technique my manager introduced me to if you struggle to find time, are audio business books. I now listen to books on my walk to and from work — 40 minutes of extra learning a day!

How about setting yourself a small challenge you want to learn about?

Over the course of a weekend with the help of some very knowledgeable YouTubers, I programmed an ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) device. It’s a tiny device that can send information from a sensor, such as movement or temperature over the internet. You will definitely be seeing some uses for this new technology being employed by the Councils over the coming year I’m sure.

As always I’ve tried to fit a lot into my week and, while I have fewer commitments than those with young families, I always try to learn one new thing each week. I’d definitely encourage anyone to push yourself to learn more, broaden your skills and enhance your specialism!