Flocode: Engineering Insights dives into the dynamic intersection of Python coding and engineering. Tailored for civil and structural engineers, this podcast uncovers practical coding applications, explores AI tools, and delves into broader engineering topics. While it complements our newsletter, expect a more spontaneous and lively dialogue. Join us for a journey of discovery at flocode.dev flocode.substack.com
Welcome back to another episode of the Flocode Podcast! Today, we're kicking off 2025 with a deep dive into open-source tools for structural engineering. Our guest is Morten Engen, a civil engineer at Multiconsult and Adjunct Associate Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). Morten is the lead developer of Structural Codes, an open-source Python library which paves a new path for how engineers approach capacity based design.This episode is a live, hands-on demonstration, almost like a webinar, where Morten walks us through Structuralcodes, complete with practical coding examples and insights. Whether you're a seasoned python programmer or just getting started, you'll gain valuable knowledge about bridging engineering, coding and how our design codes are shaped.Show Notes:* Episode Highlights:* Welcome to the Flocode Podcast and introductions.* About Dr. Morten Engen: career journey and academic background.* What is Structural Codes, and why was it developed?* An overview of the library: focusing on Eurocode 2 and reinforced concrete.* Challenges and inspirations in maintaining an open-source capacity tool.* Practical workflows: integrating Structural Codes with engineering tools like FEM software.* Live coding walkthrough: setting up and using Structural Codes.* Expanding to other codes like ACI and Canadian standards.* Modular architecture and customization for unique engineering needs.* Encouraging community contributions and future plans for Structural Codes.* Key Links:* Structural Codes Documentation* GitHub Repository for Structural Codes (Star it, fork it, provide feedback and commentary!)* FIB Model Code Information* Connect with Morten Engen on LinkedInI really appreciate Mortenās efforts in leading the structuralcodes project. Itās a fantastic contribution to our industry and I hope that Flocode listeners investigate it, use it and ultimately help to shape it with practical feedback and suggestions.This is my own personal intent as well. I am working toward implementing aspects of ACI 318-19 and CSA A23.3. If anybody is interested in helping with this, get in touch.Thanks to Morten for sharing his excellent work and thank you all for your time and attention.See you in the next one.James š Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
Hello everyone, welcome back to another episode of the Flocode Podcast! Today, Iām joined by Peter Debney, a chartered structural engineer with over 35 years of experience in both engineering practice and engineering software development. Peter has worked extensively with Arup as part of their Oasys software team, contributing to some of the most advanced solutions for finite element analysis (FEA), structural design, and crowd simulation.Peter is also the author of one of my favorite engineering books, āComputational engineeringā. Itās the first engineering book that Iāve read in a long time that made me smile. Full of practical advice and āengineeringismsā that help you think more clearly. I read it on my phone during my daily commute over a few weeks. Loved it.IStructE Online Store | Peter Debney - Computational engineeringTopics Covered in āComputational engineeringā:* Design (including parametric design)* Modelling (and its problems)* Analysis (basics and methods/linear, nonlinear, and dynamic)* Optimization* AI and machine learning* The future of engineering softwareI highly recommend Peterās book to all structural engineers. Itās full of invaluable advice and insights on how to think critically about engineering and approach problems in the most practical way, and not just in relation to computational design. I wish there were more books like it. We dive into some of these topics today, but we'll also be discussing Peter's career journey, how he transitioned from traditional structural engineering to becoming a domain expert in computational design, and his involvement with the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), where heās currently the Chair of the Yorkshire Regional Group and a member of the Digital Workflows and Computational Design Panel. We talk about the increasing role of automation, machine learning, and AI in engineering workflows, and how computational tools are shaping the future of the industry. Peter shares his insights on avoiding common pitfalls in FEA models and the benefits of understanding structural behavior before relying on software.We explore the mindset required for modern engineers to succeed in a world that increasingly relies on computational approaches. Peter offers great advice for young engineers on how to approach computational design, mastering problem-solving techniques, and even how learning a musical instrument can improve your understanding of dynamics in structural engineering.Links to items discussed:* Sydney Opera House 50 years on (A great read)* Confessions of a Computational Engineer (Peterās talk for IStructE on his career path)* https://www.oasys-software.com/ (Oasys Structural Software)I also want to acknowledge Peter's inspiring journey. He has overcome significant personal challenges, including dyslexia and speech barriers, and has become a powerful advocate for progression and adaptive approaches to neurodiversity in our profession.Another great discussion with a fascinating character. These podcasts are a lot of fun and I appreciate the kind words from everybody, wherever you are on the planet.I loved Peterās book. It reminded me of the great āStructures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Downā by JE Gordon. Another great read and one that Peter noted as an inspiration.I always welcome recommendations for new books, please comment below with your suggestions.See you in the next one!James š Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
Hi all š,Welcome back. Today Iām speaking to my friend, Connor Ferster. Connor has been operating in the Python for Engineering space for a few years now and has become a leading voice. He is the founder of StructuralPython. He is the author of the highly regarded StructuralPython course, which teaches engineers practical, Python-based solutions to streamline workflows and address real-world challenges in structural design. His next project, Engineering Automator, digs into engineering automation, guiding engineers on integrating custom Python solutions into their specific work environments for optimal efficiency and giving you a chance to maintain your sanity amidst the ever-increasing demands of the industry.In this episode, we discuss:* Engineering toolkits and workflow automation* Python for complex structural calculations* Open-source tools in structural engineering* Educational gaps in engineering with PythonConnor is also a key contributor to the open-source engineering community. His python libraries, handcalcs and forallpeople, are popular engineering tools.* handcalcs renders LaTeX math expressions in a way that mirrors traditional handwritten math (like MathCad).* forallpeople is a robust units management library simplifying the complexity of unit conversions. These open-source projects not only demonstrate his technical approach but highlight his dedication to making engineering tools more accessible to everyone. Heās an open book, pushing things forward. Thatās what itās all about.Connor also contributes to the development of Pynite, an open-source structural analysis library led by Craig Brinck. Listen to episode on Pynite here šš. Connor is helping to formalize and drive consistency in Pynite, making it even more accessible and reliable to structural engineers worldwide.Recently, he left his position at RJC Engineering here in Vancouver to focus on StructuralPython full-time, and Iām excited to see what new ideas, courses, and tools heāll come up with, given the extra bandwidth.Check out his recent series of interviews with engineers who have used Python to create their own workflow solutions.Itās always a pleasure to speak with him and I hope our listeners take a closer look at his work and upcoming Engineering Automator course, his waitlist is currently open. You can also go to https://engtoolkit.com to get your free: * PDF framework for building your own automated engineering toolkit * Links for Connorās full, unlisted, video interviewsConnor is always welcome on this podcast, and I look forward to following his journey in the years to come.See you in the next one.James š Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
October 15, 20241 hr 11 min
#046 - Flocode Podcast š | Liam Brannigan - Data Science and Civil/Structural Engineering
Welcome back to another episode of the Flocode Engineering Insights Podcast. Today, Iām speaking with Liam Brannigan. Liam is an experienced data scientist, fellow Irishman, and the creator of an excellent course on Polars, one of Pythonās fastest-growing data manipulation libraries.Liam is also a contributor to Polars fantastic documentation. In this episode, weāll be taking a birdās-eye view of the data science landscape and exploring how it can benefit practicing engineers. Liam brings excellent insights from his diverse career across multiple domains, spanning everything from finance to oceanography and now, data engineering.* Check out Liamās course here: Data Analysis with Polars* I have taken Liamās course on Polars, itās concise, clear and easy to implement. While I still use Pandas, I am using Polars more and more as my data sets increase in size and fidelity and as I gain comfort in the methods. Itās very similar to Pandas, the transition is pretty smooth for the most part - will talk about this in more detail soon.* Follow Liam on LinkedIn.We dive into why data science is becoming more important for modern engineers, the advantages of using tools like Polars and Pandas, and how these technologies can improve workflows, boost efficiency, and handle larger datasets more effectively than traditional tools like Excel.I had a great chat with Liam, because of this broad background he is uniquely positioned to understand the pros and cons of data engineering principles in a civil/structural engineering context. Thereās a lot of great information in this episode. Huge thanks to Liam for coming on the podcast, really enjoyed it.See you in the next one!James š Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
In todayās episode, I welcome Ramaseshan Kannan, the Head of Computational Science at Arup and a Royal Academy of Engineering Industrial Fellow. With a PhD in Numerical Linear Algebra from the University of Manchester and a career that spans both industry and academia, Ramaseshan is at the forefront of research in our industry as it relates to computational science, machine learning, and numerical analysis.* Connect with Ramaseshan Kannan | LinkedInAt Arup, Ramaseshan drives the development of advanced algorithms and finite element solvers, bringing innovation to the built environment. His work is a powerful blend of theory and practice, pushing the boundaries in high-performance computing, uncertainty quantification, and optimization.This area of research is one of deep personal interest to me. While Ramaseshan delves into the underlying theory and mechanics, myself and many others are on the other side of the fence, trying to implement the types tools and ideas that he creates into practical applications for our clients and projects. Itās an exciting time to be in engineering, as more tools are becoming available that are increasingly approachable, though each comes with its own learning and opportunity costs. The decisions we make about which tools to invest our time in are crucialāand often, itās only in hindsight that we understand their true value. But such is the art of progress, itās only after the fact we realize we were banging our head against the wall.My conversation with Ramaseshan was both inspiring and thought-provoking. I had a fantastic discussion with him, and I look forward to our next conversation. Heās a remarkable thinker, and Iām eager to see where his ideas and his work will lead.Thank you for being part of the Flocode community. Itās been a lot of fun so far. I will have more announcements soon.See you in the next one.James šNotes:* What Could Possibly Go Wrong? Meta Tools for Digital Tools and Workflows š ļø - By Ramaseshan Kannan* CSIC Research Talk by Dr Ramaseshan Kannan āBlending data-and computational sciences for sustainabilityā* Royal Academy of EngineeringRamaseshan spoke briefly about the potential of LLMās in the geometry or parametrization space and since our conversation, I found the following:World Labs, a newly formed company, said Friday (Sept. 13) that it has raised $230 million to build large world models (LWMs) that āperceive, generate and interact with the 3D world.āāWe aim to lift AI models from the 2D plane of pixels to full 3D worlds ā both virtual and real ā endowing them with spatial intelligence as rich as our own,ā the company said in a Friday post on LinkedIn.Source: World Labs Raises $230 Million to Build Spatially Intelligent AIPretty interesting! Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
September 3, 202454 min
#042 - Flocode Podcast š | Craig Brinck - Pynite and Finite Element Analysis in Python
Todays guest is Craig Brinck. The mastermind behind Pynite, my favourite structural analysis library for Python.Craig is a Senior Structural Engineer at Carollo Engineers, based in Herriman, Utah, with a Masterās degree from the University of Utah. During our conversation, Craig shares the story behind Pyniteāhow it evolved from his early experiments in Excel and VBA to a robust Python package that simplifies structural analysis.I am a big fan of Pynite, I think itās an incredibly useful and flexible tool for Structural Engineers. Itās free, powerful and open-source. What more could you want?Some of my favourite features include:* Fast and easy frame analysis.* Well crafted functions and methods to build models quickly and gain insights.* Great Documentation.* Visualizations and Plotting.Whether you're dealing with beams, columns, or plates, Pynite is designed to be a lean and accessible tool for engineers who want to dive deep into finite element analysis without the licensing requirements of commercial software. Itās an open book, with fully visible source code.It was a very interesting discussion for me personally, since Iāve been using Pynite myself for a number of years and have always looked forward to discussing it with Craig. Craig has extended an open invite to the Flocode Community to assist in the maintenance and future development of Pynite. * Pynite GitHub* Pynite Documentation* Craigās LinkedInIf you are interested or have some ideas, changes or practical examples you would like to share, make sure to open up the discussion at:https://github.com/JWock82/PyNite/discussionsI plan to share some more of my own insights on Pynite soon.Thank you for being a part of Flocode.See you in the next one. James š Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
August 13, 202458 min
#039 - Flocode Podcast š | Dr. MZ Naser - Machine Learning in Structural Engineering
Welcome back to the Flocode Podcast!Iām excited to welcome Dr. MZ Naser, an assistant professor at Clemson University. Dr. Naser is a leading expert in integrating advanced technologies in civil and structural engineering, with a PhD from Michigan State University. His research focuses on many applications of ML in Engineering and his primary focus for this PhD was on fire engineering and the shear response of composite steel girders exposed to fire. He has authored several influential books, including:* Machine Learning for Civil and Environmental EngineersThis book was my introduction to Dr. Naserās work. It contains an excellent overview of the ML landscape and is a great starting point for engineers interested in ML.* Interpretable Machine Learning for the Analysis, Design, Assessment, and Informed Decision Making for Civil Infrastructure* Leveraging Artificial intelligence into Engineering, Management, and Safety of InfrastructureIn this episode, we discuss the rapid advancements in machine learning and its potential to revolutionize civil engineering. Dr. MZ Naser shares his perspective on the current state of machine learning and its practical applications in the engineering sector.The discussion concludes with advice for engineers on how to start learning machine learning and its potential future impacts on the industry.This is a topic I really enjoy and I believe we will see adoption of ML tools increase exponentially over the coming years as the industry realizes the practical benefits and relative ease of adopting these tools.For those interested in the basics of Machine Learning, check out a previous Flocode article that covers the fundamentals of Linear Regression:#003 - Machine Learning for Civil and Structural Engineers | 01: The FundamentalsImportant Links:* Visual Introduction to Machine Learning - Check this out, very cool.* LinkedIn: Dr. MZ Naser* Personal Website: Dr. MZ Naser* Dr. MZ Naser - Clemson University Faculty PageI had a great time talking to Naser and I look forward to our next discussion! If any subscribers have guest recommendations or specific topics they would like me to explore, please let me know in the comments.See you in the next one!James š Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
Hello everybody, I hope youāre all thriving out there!Iām back with another podcast episode, speaking to Dr. SeĆ”n Carroll.Dr. Carroll is a chartered engineer and founder of engineeringskills.com, where he teaches a broad range of structural engineering courses, many of which include Python and other open-source tools. With a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering Dynamics from the University of Nottingham, he has extensive experience in higher education, including:* Senior Lecturer in Structural Engineering at the University of Exeter* Assistant Professor in Structural Engineering at the University of WarwickDr. Carroll has helped over 20,000 online learners enhance their skills. His courses are designed for both students and professionals, offering practical applications of structural dynamics, finite element analysis, concrete/steel design and much more.There is a wealth of information from basic to advanced topics and many of the courses employ Python to demonstrate practical examples or key concepts.This is an excellent resource for anybody who feels the need to brush up on or expand their technical understanding of core engineering concepts. Often, we are buried in code requirements and project specifications, and get lost in the minutiae. A solid grasp of the fundamentals is the cornerstone of effective engineering.Join Dr. Carroll on engineeringskills.com and take a look at the course library.SeĆ”n has provided a 30% off link for the Flocode Community, valid until the end of August 2024. Please use: FLOCODE30Iām a member of EngineeringSkills and have taken a number of SeĆ”nās courses. His material is thorough, clear and excellently presented. He got me started on Blender, a fantastic 3D modelling tool that has become a great addition to my toolbox, particularly for building complex FE and CFD models with irregular geometry.Iāve also leaned on his āMulti-Degree of Freedom Dynamics, Modal Analysis and Seismic Response Simulation in Pythonā course as well as a few others.You can connect with SeĆ”n on LinkedIn and Youtube.Check out his fantastic introduction to OpenSeesPy.We had a great chat and I look forward to doing it again.See you in the next one.James š Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
June 14, 202427 min
#033 - A Discussion on Engineering Skills
The āInsightsā series is a broader look at engineering. We will explore some ideas, philosophies and lessons learned.Today, we dig into some key skills for professional engineers. While these might not be the definitive top skills, they are important. I have included the article below if you prefer to read rather than listen. I execute some side missions during the podcast, so some additional topics are covered exclusively in the audio version.In this episode, I share what I believe are pivotal skills for engineers. It's important to note that these views are my own and may not align with the broader industry consensus. Every engineer has unique experiences and perspectives, contributing to a diverse range of valid opinions. I offer one viewpoint among many.We'll be exploring:* Cross-disciplinary understanding* System-level thinking* Adaptability in problem-solving* Ethical engineering* Storytelling and visualization* Plus, a bonus skill: Managing personalities and conflictsThese skills are more than just theoretical concepts; they're practical tools that can significantly advance your efficacy as an engineer.Books Mentioned* "The Obstacle Is the Way" by Ryan Holiday - Goodreads* "The Feynman Lectures on Physics" by Richard Feynman - Goodreads* "Six Easy Pieces" by Richard Feynman - Goodreads* "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari - GoodreadsYour thoughts and perspectives are valuable; please add your comments.James šInterdisciplinary UnderstandingThe crux of my message revolves around the interdisciplinary nature of engineering projects. Professionals in civil, structural, mechanical, geotechnical, and electrical engineering are often highly specialized in their domains. However, a broader understanding of how these areas intersect becomes pivotal, especially when coordinating complex designs.Think of it as a Venn diagram, where each circle represents a different engineering discipline. The overlap, though seemingly small, is where the magic happens.Being fluent, or even moderately conversant, in these overlapping areas offers a significant edge in managing and orchestrating intricate projects. It's a universal truth in engineering or any organization, for that matter.A few examples that come to mind.* Mechanical and structural discussing operating loads for pumps/valves/support systems.* Prefab components or modular engineered solutions being installed into a larger global structure.* Equipment suppliers and issues surrounding weight, access, constructability, sequencing, lead times, etc.* Environmental review or community engagement* Lab testing or more specialist work like specific concrete mix design, interpreting instrumentation data, or other sub-disciplines often engaged on larger projects.The gaps between these specializations and the often loosely defined scope limits are where the challenges instantiate themselves {šš}.So, why is this cross-disciplinary fluency so crucial? Simply put, it's about aligning diverse objectives that, while distinct, often intertwine with the work of other teams. By understanding these connections, we can navigate the complexities of collaboration more effectively.Every project I've been part of has reaffirmed this. A broad grasp of various fields doesn't just add valueāit's often the linchpin in transforming a complex project from a jumble of individual efforts into a well-oiled machine.Systems Level ThinkingIn a past episode, we discussed the parallels between programming and engineering and some viable problem-solving strategies in both. Systems-level thinking is another great example.Systems-level thinking is an analytical approach to understanding complex systems by examining the linkages and interactions between the components that comprise the entirety of that system. Itās about seeing the 'big picture' rather than focusing on individual elements in isolation.Key aspects of system-level thinking include:* Interconnectedness: Recognizing that changes in one part of a system can have ripple effects throughout the entire system.* Holistic Perspective: Focusing on the whole system rather than just its individual parts.* Contextual Awareness: Understanding how external factors, such as environmental, social, or economic elements, impact the system.* Feedback Loops: Identifying how actions within the system produce reactions which may influence future actions.* Dynamic Nature: Appreciating that systems are constantly evolving and that solutions may need to adapt over time.Imagine it as adjusting a lens. One moment, you're zoomed in, immersed in the intricate details of your design ā the specifications, the technical requirements. You're focused on the minutiae, ensuring every aspect of your work is heading in the right direction. But, at a moment's notice, you need to zoom out. You shift from a micro to a macro perspective, taking in the entire landscape of the project.Why is this shift significant? Because the decisions you make in those detailed designs don't always exist in isolation. They can ripple through the project. For instance, a small change in your design could lead to significant alterations in geometry, impacting other team members' work. It might necessitate logistical shifts or even affect procurement timelines. This is where system-level thinking intersects with interdisciplinary understanding. It's about recognizing that your piece of the puzzle is part of a larger one. Fractal puzzle pieces, if you will.This constant reframing ā moving between the granular details and the overarching project goals ā requires cognitive flexibility and a broad understanding of engineering principles. Who's affected by your decisions? How do your actions impact the timeline, the budget, and the overall project flow?It's about wearing different hats, understanding different perspectives, and always being ready to adjust your approach based on the projectās evolving needs. It is important to appreciate that this skill develops over time as you gain experience. However, asking the right questions and keeping this concept in mind will accelerate this process considerably.Adaptability in Problem-SolvingConsider the early stages of a project: brainstorming sessions ensue, conceptual designs are outlined, plans take shape, and expectations are formed. Brainstorming and concept design are the best parts of a project; I love itāengineering freedom. Then, the sh*t hits the fan.The transition from theory to practice often reveals the fluid nature of real-world conditions. When on-site work commencesāboots are on the ground. Drilling, digging, constructing, implementingāand unforeseen challenges arise. It's in these moments that the ability to pivot becomes invaluable.Adaptable problem-solving is more than a skill; it's a mindset. It's about maintaining composure and responsiveness in the face of new challenges. The key lies in how we interpret and react to changing conditions. Can we remain calm and solution-oriented? Can we extract critical information from evolving scenarios to make informed decisions? These are the hallmarks of an effective engineer.Being adaptable also means being resourceful. It involves evaluating the available information and considering various options. By asking intelligent questions, we can draw additional insights out of situations, guiding us toward more informed, nuanced solutions. The value is immense if you can work towards becoming this type of hypothetical question master. I have always loved people that ask good questions. They elevate the room, and they promote better thinking.In essence, adaptability in engineering is about thriving within constraints, whatever they may be. It's about seeing change not as an obstacle but as an opportunity, as annoying and cliched as that sounds.This mindset, which requires rigorous cultivation and willpower, can transform challenges into triumphs, ensuring that you are always part of the solution.Ethical EngineeringThis is a broad topic, and Iāll try to do a dedicated episode on ethical engineering topics because so much falls into this very interesting bucket. Many issues are grey areas, philosophical discussions that can be quite polarizing for people.In my experience working in several countries and jurisdictions, while ethical considerations are universally acknowledged as crucial, they often need to receive extra emphasis during execution. This is easy to say, but the world is a complicated place. In reality, thereās often a layer of financial or legal abstraction between the words in a contract and the real-world application. Ultimately, everything hinges on the context of local culture, project budgets and regulatory requirements.Itās easy to whine about it as a backseat driver, but I donāt have a clean solution other than to try your best to be vocal about issues you encounter in the most productive manner possible and offer viable solutions or alternatives.There are many topics to consider under the āethical engineering umbrellaā and many deep dives.One aspect of my industry that I find extremely interesting is First Nationsā engagement and partnerships. This is a huge focus here in BC, Canada. For subscribers in other parts of the world, First Nations people in Canada refer to the diverse groups of Indigenous peoples who were the original inhabitants of the land that is now Canada. There are over 600 recognized First Nations governments or bands across Canada.Itās been a fascinating journey for me, an Irish immigrant (I moved here after university in 2010), observing the complex interactions of FN communities with the federal and provincial governments. Given the topicās history and politics, there is a lot to unpack, which I will hopefully do in a future post. Itās certainly not my area of expertise, but from a purely sociological and personal learning perspective, there are many valuable discussions to be had. Professionals involved in large-scale projects often face compartmentalization and time constraints, making it challenging to engage fully with the multifaceted aspects of ethical engineering. Few clients are willing to pay to philosophize. Itās a difficult thing to nail down.Navigating complex and bureaucratic regulatory environments is a constant challenge in my work. These regulations significantly impact project timelines and execution strategies. Energy projects, my neck of the woods, whether they involve wind, solar, hydro, nuclear, or thermal energy, require a careful balance between societal power needs and environmental impacts. There has been a recent push to modernize the process (The Importance of Streamlining Hydropower Licensing).This balance is not just a technical challenge but an ethical one, highlighting the need for engineers to consider the broader implications of their work. Iām still not sure where we are supposed to find the time/budget to consider all these things!Storytelling & VisualizationEffective communication, particularly through storytelling and visuals, shapes project outcomes and guides stakeholder decisions. Communication is about transmitting ideas and concepts.āOur language allows us to share information about objects, events, and ideas that are not present at the moment.ā - Yuval Noah Harari, Sapiens.Throughout my career, I've encountered communicators of all stripes. Some have been exceptionally clear and concise, providing value and insight with every word spoken. Elite communication skills are both impressive and impactful, whether it's articulating a problem, offering a solution, or eliciting valuable responses through sharp, insightful questioning. Such individuals understand the power of clear, concise updates and instructions. Itās a game-changer.One of my heroes, Richard P. Feynman, is a master of this craft. His ability to distill complex concepts in various branches of physics into simple, understandable explanations is inspiring. I highly recommend digging into his work if you are interested in physics and the nature of reality.For me, receiving clear instructions is like a breath of fresh air. It gives me a clear direction, allowing me to dive straight into the task at hand. In contrast, vague or poorly communicated instructions can be a real headache. This is particularly true in engineering, where project requirements often have a degree of intentional ambiguity. We're frequently walking a tightrope, balancing general criteria with specific project needs, and there isn't always a clear-cut path to follow.Sometimes, an owner or a client is still determining what they want, so it takes some creative reasoning and preparation to get everything outlined in an actionable plan that aligns with their objectives.This ambiguity often leads to some engineering 'freestyling.ā In these situations, the ability to communicate effectively becomes even more critical. The skill of storytelling and visualization helps immensely here. Visualization, in particular, is a tool I value. It's about painting a picture in the mind's eye, helping others to see and understand complex concepts or problems. The ability to do this effectively can significantly enhance understanding and collaboration in a project.Your effectiveness is only as strong as your ability to communicate it.Managing Personalities or ConflictIf youāre a human being, you will inevitably run into personality clashes and people that frustrate the living daylights out of you. Folks that make the veins in your temple pulse so violently, itās like theyāre drumming for Metallica. Perhaps youāre a jaw clencher? Determined to powderize your molars. Itās just the nature of being human, thereās an arch nemesis out there for all of us! Everything they say elicits some sort of primal reaction convincing you itās the stupidest thing youāve every heard.Maybe youāve white-knuckled your way through this entire article despite me being that very person.If youāre still here, I appreciate it. Itās not easy.Navigating personality clashes and conflicts in the workplace can be a real challenge. I have my share of war stories, but I won't dive into those. Generally, my strategy is to take a step back and try to see the bigger picture. Often, I find that the person causing the friction is under significant stress themselves. It's like they're a character in their own intense Brazilian soap opera (apologies to the Brazilians but you guys have been my most dramatic friend demographic by at last 10X), and I'm just an extra. I try to avoid taking things personally, which is easier said than done, but losing your cool professionally rarely ends well.Of course, there are times when confrontation or a reality check is necessary. But I approach these situations with extreme caution. It's about finding that balance between standing your ground and maintaining professional decorum. The arts of negotiation, de-escalation, and defusing are all in this bucket, and they warrant some consideration so that youāre ready, if required, to step into the ring.And in the very worst of cases, clocking up some mat time in BJJ will (a) help blow off some steam and (b) give you the tools to fold your mortal enemies into pretzels or as some people say folding peoples clothes while theyāre still in them. I jest, donāt do this.ClosingWrapping up today's article, let's quickly revisit our skills list:* Cross-disciplinary understanding * System-level thinking* Adaptability and problem-solving* Ethical engineering* Storytelling and visualization* Managing personalities and conflict Discover more about how flocode can enhance your engineering toolkit by visiting flocode.dev and stay updated with our latest insights and resources through this newsletter at flocode.substack.com.What do you think about engineering skills? Letās discuss below.See you in the next one.James š Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
May 2, 202450 min
#029 - Flocode Podcast | 007 - Anande Bergman - Viktor AI
Hello out there everyone, Iām back with another episode.This time, thereās video. Iāve tried this before and had various technical issues so Iām still finding my feet with the optimum workflow for thing. Bear with me.As always, no commercial deals are in place, these are my own opinions on Viktor.I had a great discussion with Anande Bergman of Viktor AI in this episode. Anande is the chief officer for growth at Viktor AI, a platform thatās simplifying the app creation process for engineers across the globe.Viktor AI integrates with Python, Excel and a broad variety of other commercial engineering software, and is changing the landscape of how engineers can build applications for themselves, their teams, and their clients.Anande will explain Viktor, how it works, their vision and their tools. He also shares how Viktorās extensive documentation and examples empower engineers to tackle a broad spectrum of tasks in new ways. If youāre interested in automating tasks, making your work interactive, or creating tools, then this episode is for you.I encourage you to check out the documentation and examples for yourself. The team at Viktor have done a fantastic job in terms of making their systems accessible, practical and usable. Recently they released a slick visual app builder with a drag and drop interface, to make things even more accessible.Viktor has a generous free tier that provides users with full functionality as long as you are OK with your app being public, you can check out their various plans here, just be aware of any data you are uploading (from a commercial sensitivity perspective).The Viktor team is active and productive with new features, content and updates rolling out on a consistent basis.I see big things on the horizon for Viktor and exciting times for Anande and his team.If youāre curious about building internal or personal engineering apps, Viktor is a great platform, with rich documentation and resources. I really appreciate the extent of free services that they have provided for engineers. Much respect.A great chat with a very nice guy, now on with the episode.See you in the next one.James š Get full access to Flocode: Engineering Insights š at flocode.substack.com/subscribe
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