Checklists, Procedures and Drudgery again

Young people do not come into the IT industry with the intention of following checklists and procedures which make their life a drudgery. There is obviously a need for standards when analysing, designing and implementing computer systems. For some reason, however, the IT industry is being coming more and more bureaucratic and is concerned more about controlling the people than the work. This is leading to a "long hours" and "do everything at the last minute" culture, which is stifling creativity, critical thinking, productivity and problem solving efficacy. No wonder our young systems designers and programmers are bored, disaffected, tired and overworked when a crisis crops up. And, unfortunately, the crises are now occurring too often.

Why can we not encourage a working environment where young people are allowed and encouraged to think for themselves within the parameters and limits of proven standards of working? If everyone one understands the engineering principles behind good IT practice they will then be able to act more responsibly. We as managers would then be able to delegate authority and responsibility to project team members to allow them to control their own work within the confines of a good project plan and in full co-operation with their fellow workers. Every one will then be part of a well organised team which knows what to do without being restricted and hidebound by too many unnecessary rules, check lists and processes. This will then be the route back to high quality delivery, high productivity and a healthier working environment for all. We might start enjoying ourselves at work again.