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Talk Python to Me: #558: Hyper-Personal Software with Python
The concept of dark-matter enterprise software refers to internal tools built by companies that are not well understood and are often left untouched. These tools are typically built by individuals who have since left the company, and there is a general reluctance to modify or update them. As a result, they can become frozen in time, with many similar tools existing in the shadows. Michael Booth has written about the idea of hyper-team software, where small teams within large companies build their own tools to fill gaps in functionality. This approach can be beneficial, but it also carries risks if not managed properly. The idea of hyper-team software is an extension of the concept of hyper-personal software, which refers to customized tools built for individual use. Michael Booth's article explores the potential benefits and pitfalls of hyper-team software, including the need for guardrails to prevent chaos. The discussion around hyper-team software is relevant in the context of companies losing significant value due to outdated or poorly maintained internal tools. The topic is also connected to the idea of AI-assisted tools and the potential for small teams to drive innovation within large companies. The conversation around hyper-team software highlights the importance of finding a balance between allowing teams to build their own tools and maintaining a level of oversight and control to prevent problems from arising.