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The 5 Ps of Measuring Engineering Management
4 min readJan 10, 2025
Engineering management is often challenging to evaluate, as its impact extends beyond tangible outputs like code or projects. The effectiveness of a manager is rooted in how they inspire, lead, and influence their teams, peers, and processes. A practical way to assess engineering managers comprehensively is through the “Five Ps”: Personal, Personnel, Projects, Peers, and Process. Let’s break down each of these and explore how they provide a full picture of managerial success.
1. Personal: The Individual Presence of the Manager
A manager’s individual traits and behaviors set the tone for their team and influence their effectiveness. This dimension focuses on how they show up daily, both in their demeanor and their leadership style.
Key Metrics:
- Consistency: Are they reliable and predictable in their responses and decisions? Consistency builds trust among team members and peers.
- Approachability: Do team members feel comfortable bringing up problems or seeking guidance?
- Emotional Intelligence (EQ): High EQ allows managers to navigate complex interpersonal situations and respond empathetically to challenges.
