Generalists connect departments and translate specialist advice into language other decision-makers can use. Clarke describes this as a substantial part of his own consultancy work. He argues that the role is necessary but cannot replace the engineers and other specialists producing the technical knowledge. Good communicators may also be especially effective at defending their own posts during cuts. The organizational problem is therefore the balance of functions and staffing.
Notable Point · 2:17:18-2:18:42
What generalists contribute to technical departments
Technical organizations need translation between departments alongside the specialist knowledge being translated.