Georges Sofo's Linkedin Analytics

From Code to Impact: My Journey from Software Developer to Software Engineer. What does it mean to move from writing code to shaping a business? In 2012, I started my career as a Software Developer in South Africa, where my world was defined by detailed specifications from Business Analysts and Product Managers. My job was simple: turn requirements into functional code. It was a role focused on execution—making sure everything worked as prescribed. Years later, I craved a bigger challenge and moved to the Netherlands to join DAZN, a global sports streaming powerhouse, as a Software Engineer. This wasn’t just a new job or a fancier title—it was a complete shift in perspective. At DAZN, I wasn’t handed a to-do list. Instead, I was expected to create one. My role evolved from following instructions to proactively spotting ways to enhance the platform—whether that meant improving user experience, boosting engagement, or driving revenue. Suddenly, I wasn’t just coding; I was contributing to the business’s success, bridging the gap between technical work and strategic goals. Why This Matters Now More Than Ever This transition reflects a seismic shift in the software industry—one turbocharged by AI. As tools like AI take over routine tasks (think generating boilerplate code or evaluating libraries), the days of the traditional “Software Developer” are numbered. What’s emerging is a new breed of professional: the “Product Engineer.” It’s a mindset I began embracing at DAZN—less about churning out code and more about solving problems, understanding users, and delivering value. In an AI-driven future, the engineers who thrive won’t just be technical wizards—they’ll be strategic thinkers. They’ll identify what users need before it’s spelled out, propose bold solutions, and measure success by business impact, not lines of code. My time at DAZN was my first step toward this reality, and it’s a journey that’s only becoming more relevant. What’s Next? How do you see AI reshaping our roles? Are you preparing for a future where software engineering is as much about innovation as implementation? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Are you a software developer looking to elevate your career and become a true product champion? 🚀 In today's fast-paced tech landscape, the ability to analyze requirements and build a comprehensive mental model of the product is more crucial than ever. This approach not only makes you more proactive but also transforms you from a mere software developer into a product engineer—a role that is increasingly in demand. 🔍 Why Analyze Requirements? Analyzing requirements goes beyond just understanding the technical specs. It’s about grasping the core problem or need that the software aims to solve. By doing this, you create a mental model that allows you to see the bigger picture. This holistic view enables you to anticipate challenges, propose innovative solutions, and make decisions that align with the product’s strategic goals. 💡 Becoming Proactive With a clear mental model, you’re no longer just reacting to tasks; you’re proactively shaping the product’s future. You can identify potential issues before they arise, suggest improvements that enhance user experience, and ensure that every line of code contributes to the overall vision. This proactive mindset is what sets product engineers apart from traditional software developers. 🏆 The Benefits of Being a Product Engineer Indispensable Asset: Your deep understanding of the product makes you a key player in your team, someone who can drive the project forward with insight and foresight. Career Advancement: Companies value developers who can think strategically and contribute to the product’s success. This can lead to greater responsibilities, leadership roles, and higher job satisfaction. Standing Out: In a crowded job market, being a product engineer makes you highly sought after. Employers are always on the lookout for developers who can deliver real value and innovate beyond the code. 🌟 Stand Out from the Crowd By embracing this approach, you position yourself as a champion of the product, deeply invested in its success. This not only makes you more valuable to your current employer but also opens doors to exciting opportunities in the industry. So, take the leap! Start analyzing requirements with a product-focused mindset and watch your career transform. Let’s build the future, one innovative solution at a time. 💪 #ProductEngineering #SoftwareDevelopment #CareerGrowth #Innovation #TechLeadership #ProactiveMindset #StandOut

I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as Senior Software Engineer at Skywalk Innovations!