The "start with why" concept, popularized by Simon Sinek (I think it's one of the first "viral" videos I've watched), is a powerful framework for understanding and communicating the purpose of your work.

In the context of software development, this means understanding the "why" behind the software you are building, beyond the functional requirements and technical specifications.

The "why" is the underlying reason for the software's existence. It is the problem that it is trying to solve, the needs that it is trying to meet, and the impact that it is trying to have on the world.

The "why" is typically defined by the product manager, who is responsible for understanding the needs of the users and the market. The "how" is then defined by the scrum master or team leader, who is responsible for planning and executing the development process. The "what" is defined by the developers, who are responsible for writing the code and implementing the features.

When developers understand the "why" behind the software they are building, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their work. They are also more likely to make better decisions and solve problems more effectively.

Benefits of understanding the "why" behind the software

Increased motivation and engagement: When developers understand the impact of their work, they are more likely to be motivated and engaged in their tasks.

Improved problem-solving: Understanding the "why" can help developers make better decisions and solve problems more effectively.
Better communication and collaboration: When everyone on the team understands the "why," it can lead to better communication and collaboration.

Increased innovation: When developers are passionate about the "why," they are more likely to be innovative and come up with creative solutions.

If you are a software developer, I encourage you to talk to your product manager or team leader to learn more about the "why" behind the software you are working on. Understanding the "why" can help you become a more effective and engaged developer.

Understanding the "why" can also help developers to

Build better software: When developers understand the "why," they are more likely to build software that meets the needs of users and the market.

Stay motivated: When developers understand the impact of their work, they are more likely to stay motivated, even when things get tough.

Be more creative: When developers are passionate about the "why," they are more likely to be creative and come up with innovative solutions.

I believe that understanding the "why" is essential for all software developers. It can help you to build better software, be more motivated, and have a more fulfilling career.

Additional tips for understanding the "why"

1. Talk to your product manager or team leader.
2. Read customer feedback and reviews.
3. Use market research to understand the needs of your target audience.
4. Think about the impact that your software could have on the world.
5. By understanding the "why" behind the software you are building, you can make a real difference in the world.