One Thing: Balancing Hard and Soft Skills in the Age of AI
Two Women on the Shore (II) by Edvard Munch, 1898
In “Formal Methods Aren’t Just Formalities”, Philip Brooker dives into the importance of applying formal methods to complex software systems. These methods, which rely on mathematical frameworks and structured approaches, are crucial for managing the increasing complexity of modern software. Brooker argues that while these approaches may seem theoretical or academic, they offer practical benefits—like preventing costly bugs and improving system reliability. In a world where software failures can have massive impacts, formal methods provide a way to navigate complexity with confidence.
What’s especially compelling is Brooker’s focus on the long-term benefits of rigorous thinking. While the upfront investment in formal methods can seem daunting, it ultimately saves time, reduces errors, and improves outcomes. For anyone working on large-scale systems or critical infrastructure, this article is a great reminder of why the fundamentals matter: structured thinking leads to scalable, reliable results.
In “The Importance of Investing in Soft Skills in the Age of AI”, CSS-Tricks emphasizes that as AI continues to take over technical tasks, soft skills are becoming even more essential. The article highlights how skills like communication, empathy, and adaptability are critical for building trust, fostering collaboration, and addressing the human side of technology. While technical expertise will always be important, the ability to connect with others and solve problems creatively is what will truly set people apart.
The piece also argues that soft skills aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re integral to creating inclusive and innovative teams. As AI and automation continue to evolve, investing in interpersonal skills becomes a competitive advantage. Whether you’re leading a team, mentoring others, or working cross-functionally, this article is a great reminder to focus on the human element of technology.
Together, these two articles highlight a valuable insight: thriving in today’s tech landscape requires balancing rigorous technical approaches with human-centered soft skills. Mastering both ensures not only that the systems we build are robust and reliable, but also that the teams building them are collaborative and resilient.