The Changelog: Software Development, Open Source

What even is a DevRel? (Interview)

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Jun 20, 2022

Lee Robinson, Director of Developer Relations at Vercel, shares his insights on the evolving landscape of DevRel. He discusses the importance of empathy and understanding in building stronger communities. Robinson dives into his three pillars—education, community, and product—and reflects on the transformational journey of DevRel from in-person outreach to hybrid engagements. He also highlights the challenges of maintaining work-life balance and the significance of effective communication in fostering trust between developers and organizations.

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ADVICE

Empathy in DevRel

DevRel teams should have empathy for the community's direction and provide feedback on product development.
Empathy and feedback are essential for DevRel.

INSIGHT

Challenges with Sales-Oriented Metrics

KPIs and OKRs tied to sales can be challenging for DevRel teams.
Empathy and a focus on developer success drive good DevRel.

ANECDOTE

History of DevRel

DevRel, or software evangelism, originated at Apple in the 1980s.
It has since evolved, becoming more formalized and valuable.

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This week Lee Robinson joins us to talk about his journey as a DevRel. We talk about what it means to be a DevRel, what orgs they fall under, how he runs his team at Vercel, Lee’s three pillars of DevRel: education, community, and product, we compare the old days of DevRel vs now, and of course what makes a DevRel a good DevRel.

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Featuring:

Lee Robinson – Website, GitHub, X
Adam Stacoviak – Website, GitHub, LinkedIn, Mastodon, X
Jerod Santo – Website, GitHub, LinkedIn, Mastodon, X

Show Notes:

Swyx on measuring Developer Relations

Something missing or broken? PRs welcome!