bigtimesink

We've all worked on relatively simple systems that eschewed out-of-the-box solutions and build something in-house either for resume padding, because people had big dreams for the project, or lack of awareness of prior art. Some systems are actually snowflakes that need custom solutions. What are systems you've worked on that actually are special?

I'm used to working on smaller projects--ones where I can hold the entire project structure and framework in my head. It makes me incredibly effective since I know my way around the project, how any magic works, and the cleanest way to do things. I also find my work is better because I feel more invested in the project and have more control in its direction.

I recently joined a large team with a large project that involves some cross-functional work. What are some strategies people have for working in this sort of environment?

More context: I'm an experienced (10+ years) engineer who's worked at several big names you've heard of. It's not that I'm not comfortable wading through a megarepo to fix a bug or reaching out to other teams for help. My issue is with ambiguity, vision, ownership, and having the big picture of the project in my head.