Makers, Don't Let Yourself Be Forced Into the 'Manager Schedule'

This article provides practical strategies for engineering teams to protect deep work time by avoiding the manager schedule's hourly interruptions. The core insight is that makers require long, uninterrupted blocks while managers operate in hourly intervals, with research showing it takes ~23 minutes to refocus after disruption. Key strategies include implementing 'Maker-Manager Office Hours' (designating specific days/times for collaboration while reserving others for focused work), prioritizing asynchronous communication (replacing unnecessary meetings with written documentation, creating self-service knowledge bases), and using practical techniques like working during low-interruption times and establishing 'Do Not Disturb' modes. The goal is creating an environment where makers achieve 'long stretches of silence, isolation, and deep work' without constant interruptions. Engineering leaders will learn that 'real work is usually done quietly and in solitude' and must create organizational cultures that respect and protect deep work time.