Rob Edwards
I believe that the hardest problems in technology are actually human problems. My work focuses on that intersection, combining a deep understanding of psychology with expertise in building reliable, large-scale software systems.
As a technical lead at Google Cloud, I help customer ship software more smoothly. This involves applying principles from software engineering, Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) and platform engineering to create systems and tools that are genuinely helpful, not frustrating. My goal is to clear the path for developers so they can focus on creative work and collaboration.
I’m driven by the idea of building healthier, more effective engineering cultures where curiosity and teamwork can flourish.
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Generative AI is reshaping software development, yet its psychological impact remains under-researched. During May and August 2025 we conducted reflexive thematic analysis of interviews with 12 senior engineers (≥5 years experience) recruited from Western technology hubs to explore shifts in professional identity. We identify a central transition from "coder to conductor," where AI acts as a cognitive partner. Key findings include: (1) a re-architecting of focus from implementation to strategy; (2) a shift in productivity metrics from output to impact; and (3) a dual-impact on agency, where AI empowers autonomy but threatens competence through de-skilling anxieties. These findings suggest that as implementation becomes commoditised, organisational training and career progression must prioritise architectural mastery and metacognitive oversight to ensure sustained developer motivation and system integrity.
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DORA 2025 State of AI-assisted Software Development Report
Derek DeBellis
Kevin Storer
Matt Beane
Edward Fraser
Ben Good
Eirini Kalliamvakou
Gene Kim
Daniella Villalba
DORA, Google (2025)
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In 2025, the central question for technology leaders is no longer if they should adopt AI, but how to realize its value. DORA’s research includes more than 100 hours of qualitative data and survey responses from nearly 5,000 technology professionals from around the world. The research reveals a critical truth: AI’s primary role in software development is that of an amplifier. It magnifies the strengths of high-performing organizations and the dysfunctions of struggling ones.
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DORA AI Capabilities Model
Ameer Abbas
Derek DeBellis
Vivian Hu
Amanda Lewis
Dave Stanke
Kevin Storer
Lucia Subatin
Cedric Yao
DORA, Google (2025)
Preview abstract
Generative AI is rapidly reshaping the software development landscape, presenting both exciting opportunities and complex challenges.
This report offers research-backed guidance for leaders and practitioners to effectively navigate this transformation, providing actionable insights to maximize AI's benefits while mitigating potential risks.
Based on extensive data and developer interviews, the report moves beyond the hype to offer a nuanced perspective on AI's impact on individuals, teams, and organizations.
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