How do you communicate A++ abstraction concepts to non-technical stakeholders?

1 Explain the benefits

The first step to communicate A++ abstraction concepts to non-technical stakeholders is to explain the benefits of using them. You can use analogies, examples, or stories to illustrate how abstraction can make your software more reliable, secure, maintainable, or adaptable. For instance, you can compare abstraction to a car dashboard, where you can control the speed, temperature, or fuel level without knowing how the engine works. Or you can show how abstraction can help you avoid duplication, errors, or inconsistencies by reusing existing code or libraries.

2 Use simple and consistent terminology

The second step to communicate A++ abstraction concepts to non-technical stakeholders is to use simple and consistent terminology. You should avoid using jargon, acronyms, or technical terms that might confuse or alienate your audience. Instead, you should use plain language, metaphors, or visuals to describe your abstraction concepts. For example, you can use terms like "building blocks", "templates", or "containers" to explain classes, functions, or data structures. You can also use diagrams, charts, or icons to represent the relationships, interactions, or behaviors of your abstract components.

3 Focus on the essentials

The third step to communicate A++ abstraction concepts to non-technical stakeholders is to focus on the essentials. You should not try to explain every detail or aspect of your abstraction concepts, but rather highlight the most relevant or important ones for your audience. You should also prioritize the information that answers their questions, concerns, or needs, and avoid unnecessary or irrelevant details that might distract or bore them. For example, you can focus on how your abstraction concepts solve a specific problem, meet a specific requirement, or deliver a specific value for your stakeholders.

4 Provide concrete examples

The fourth step to communicate A++ abstraction concepts to non-technical stakeholders is to provide concrete examples. You should not rely on abstract or theoretical explanations, but rather show how your abstraction concepts work in practice. You can use real-world scenarios, case studies, or demonstrations to illustrate how your software uses or implements your abstraction concepts. You can also use feedback, testimonials, or statistics to show the results or outcomes of your abstraction concepts. For example, you can show how your software handles different inputs, outputs, or exceptions using your abstraction concepts.

5 Encourage questions and feedback

The fifth step to communicate A++ abstraction concepts to non-technical stakeholders is to encourage questions and feedback. You should not assume that your audience understands or agrees with everything you say, but rather invite them to ask questions, share opinions, or express concerns. You should also listen actively, empathetically, and respectfully to their feedback, and address any doubts, misconceptions, or objections they might have. For example, you can ask them if they have any questions about your abstraction concepts, or if they have any suggestions on how to improve them.

6 Follow up and revise

The sixth and final step to communicate A++ abstraction concepts to non-technical stakeholders is to follow up and revise. You should not consider your communication as a one-time event, but rather as an ongoing process. You should follow up with your audience to see if they have any further questions, comments, or issues regarding your abstraction concepts. You should also revise your communication based on their feedback, and update or modify your abstraction concepts as needed. For example, you can send them a summary of your communication, or a document that explains your abstraction concepts in more detail.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?