Overwhelmed Software Developers

TL;DR

This study qualitatively explores the multifaceted experience of overwhelm among software developers, identifying seven categories and highlighting both negative impacts and potential motivational aspects.

Contribution

It provides a novel qualitative analysis of overwhelm in software development, emphasizing unique developer traits and categorizing different overwhelm types.

Findings

Most overwhelm types reduce productivity and increase stress.

Some overwhelm can enhance focus and motivation.

Stress commonly accompanies overwhelm.

Abstract

We have conducted a qualitative psychology study to explore the experience of feeling overwhelmed in the realm of software development. Through the candid confessions of two participants who have recently faced overwhelming challenges, we have identified seven distinct categories: communication-induced, disturbance-related, organizational, variety, technical, temporal, and positive overwhelm. While most types of overwhelm tend to deteriorate productivity and increase stress levels, developers sometimes perceive overwhelm as a catalyst for heightened focus, self-motivation, and productivity. Stress was often found to be a common companion of overwhelm. Our findings align with previous studies conducted in diverse disciplines. However, we believe that software developers possess unique traits that may enable them to navigate through the storm of overwhelm more effectively.