How do companies such as Jaguar Land Rover drive innovation? We spoke to software developer Jason Kelly about how he and his team approach problem-solving.
The automobile industry is undergoing a seismic shift and not even renowned British car brand Jaguar Land Rover is immune to this.
Both the rise of autonomous vehicles and pressure to convert to sustainable energy sources have forced the hand of those in the car business, compelling them to keep on the crest of the wave of innovation. How do companies meet the evolving demands of consumers so that they may remain leaders of industry?
We spoke to Jason Kelly, a software developer at Jaguar Land Rover, to get some insight into how his working day reflects this drive to keep evolving.
What is your role within Jaguar Land Rover?
Software developer.
If there is such a thing, can you describe a typical day in the job?
There isn’t really a typical day because it is always changing but, if I had to describe it: first thing in the morning, there is a meeting with your group to discuss any current issues and the plan of action. Then it’s time to act on this plan of action, which means coding, problem-solving etc.
This sounds straightforward but, because we are working in an area that is new and growing, lots of problems can arise.
What types of project do you work on?
I work on a lot of proof-of-concepts for the vehicle architecture. I also spend time writing applications, which can range from embedded coding to front-end websites. I have even done some graphics.
I am very lucky because my degree was in multimedia programming and design, so this enables me to work in a lot of areas.
What skills do you use on a daily basis?
Some of the skills would be people skills, which come into play when working with your team. Each member has their own way and you must try to find a way to work with them.
The main skill for my job would have to be problem-solving. I feel this skill is important in your job and life.
What is the hardest part of your working day?
I find the hardest part of my day is trying to stop myself from working and go home. I get very involved with my work and I find it hard to walk way.
Do you have any productivity tips that help you through the working day?
I find if you have your goals set out in the morning and plan your tasks, you will have a path to follow and shouldn’t lose focus.
Another thing I find very helpful when developing or problem-solving is to walk away or work on another task if you are stuck on something.
You can look at the same thing for too long and, as a result, you cannot see the problem; but, by clearing your head and coming back to it, you can see this through fresh eyes and have a better chance to see the problem.
When you first started this job, what were you most surprised to learn was important in the role?
To be honest, I wasn’t very surprised with anything, apart from the amount of trust I was given in projects.
How has this role changed as this sector has grown and evolved?
This is new ground for the company and myself, working in a software centre for a car manufacturing company. The world is changing and technology is not slowing down, so the demand for cars to evolve is high.
What do you enjoy most about the job?
I love to problem-solve. In my job, I get to do this every day and it challenges me. The more I solve, the more enjoyment I get from it.
Want to work at Jaguar Land Rover? Check out the Jaguar Land Rover Careers page for current vacancies.
