This paper focuses on the software engineer, as opposed to some softwa
re engineering discipline. The author's worldwide experience in softwa
re development has resulted in concluding that the vast majority of pr
oblems encountered while developing software are more people oriented
rather than technology based. Therefore, for there to be any improveme
nts in the reliability of software, it may be wise to revisit some of
the people issues, otherwise, even the best methods, tools and techniq
ues will not make an impact on the software development process so as
to result in higher levels of software quality. Many are the problems
which the software engineer is faced with while trying to piece togeth
er the complex information systems that the current global market dict
ates. Lack of office space and engineer concentration, unpaid overtime
, non-productive meeting cultures, performance appraisals and absence
of team work all contribute to the demotivation of the software engine
er. Trying to introduce a new tool or a new technique to a demotivated
staff is simply a waste of time. Thus, it is of paramount importance
to realize that in the labour intensive software development world, th
e focus must first be on the human factor. Basic human nature has not
changed over the years, therefore, the author sought out solutions fro
m the past regarding the management of people, so as to be applied tod
ay in the development of software. This paper concludes with a 'euphor
ia quadrant' so as to provide a simple means for software producing un
its to gauge their management style and their overall working environm
ent. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V.