There is more information about me, Jonathan Kohl, on my website.
Q: What is a software producer?
A: I got the terminology from David Hussman who is a former music producer. I have done a bit of production work myself with bands I used to play with in the past. As David and I collaborated more, I found that my approach to working on software development teams has been influenced by my work as a musician.
On software teams, I tend to step in and help out where I can, and help teams plan, get productive, and stay productive. I do some project management work, some design work, help with problem solving and strategy with senior staff, and help solve problems in the trenches with the technical team. My background in software testing means I may help with testing tasks, user experience work, test automation, or other testing issues that come up. I also have experience as a programmer, technical writer and business analyst.
There isn’t a term on software development teams for that role, so I call it: “Software Producer”.
Q: Why Management?
A: I’m a trained manager, and I have a lot of experience managing different teams. My software testing consulting led me to help with general technical leadership, as well as helping executives with policy and strategy, in addition to their quality goals. I also work as an adviser to technology companies and startups. I’m interested in the role technical and senior level leaders have in companies and I enjoy writing about these topics.