Empathy, like software, has an underlying system architecture. When we understand the schematic details of empathy, we can operationalize it more effectively and embed compassion into our codebases and communication habits. In this presentation, participants will learn modern models of empathy that often contradict common colloquial expressions.

In this workshop, participants will look at their coding practices with a fresh perspective to uncover how to notice opportunities and apply empathy effectively for a positive change by using Empathy-Driven Development.

Empathy is a technical skill. Don’t worry. You read that correctly. While empathy is often cited as a critical “soft skill,” it doesn’t stop there. Empathy is also an incredibly technical topic that is more accessible to analytical engineers and more vital to building software than you might think. In this engaging presentation, Andrea Goulet, a noted expert on communication in the software industry, will debunk several myths around empathy. You’ll walk away with a solid understanding of what empathy is, what it isn’t, how you can build your empathy skills, and a framework for using empathy while coding.

Technologists often need to share important information with people whose expertise isn’t as deep as ours. Effective communication in these places can determine whether a project gets funded, who gets promoted, how much customers want to purchase products, and more. It even impacts the code. When we communicate with clarity and purpose, our codebases are easier to read, modify, and deploy.