One Week of Focused Bug Fixing: Resolving 189 Issues

Every quarter, my team of about 45 software engineers halts all regular tasks for a dedicated “fixit” week. During this time, we pause roadmap, design, meetings, and standups to concentrate solely on fixing small bugs and improving developer productivity.

The goal is simple: resolve bugs that take no more than two days, focusing on end-user issues or internal tools. We use a points system and leaderboards to motivate participants, offering T-shirts for achievements like first bug fixed or most bugs resolved. This approach fosters a collaborative and results-oriented environment.

In this recent fixit, we fixed 189 bugs with 40 team members involved. The median bug fix per person was four, with some resolving as many as 12. Highlights included revisiting a bug from 2021—a small feature request that was quickly implemented, enhancing user experience. Another team member streamlined the CI process with a minimal code change that garnered positive feedback. Additionally, creating a new SDK version to facilitate easier integration took just an hour but could influence user adoption significantly.

Fixits enhance product quality by addressing small details that separate good products from exceptional ones. They reflect dedication to craftsmanship and user satisfaction by polishing rough edges that may go unnoticed but impact usability.

For developers, fixits rekindle the satisfaction of tangible work—seeing a problem, fixing it, and shipping quickly. It offers a refreshing return to early-career innovation, emphasizing immediate impact and problem-solving.

Team morale also benefits as fixits promote collaboration and a sense of achievement. Sharing updates and working together on tangible issues boosts spirits and fosters a proactive culture.

Overall, a dedicated week of bug fixing not only improves the product but also revitalizes the team and reinforces a commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

FAQs

Q: What is a fixit week?
A: A fixit week is a scheduled time each quarter where a team halts regular work to focus exclusively on fixing small bugs and improving internal tools.

Q: Why are fixit weeks valuable?
A: They help improve product quality, boost team morale, and facilitate quick, impactful problem-solving—all while addressing small issues that may be overlooked during regular development.

Q: How many bugs can a team typically fix in a fixit?
A: It varies, but in this example, 40 team members fixed 189 bugs, averaging about four bugs per person.

Q: What motivates engineers during fixits?
A: Leaderboards, points, and rewards like T-shirts encourage participation and create a friendly competitive environment.

Q: Can fixits lead to long-term benefits?
A: Yes, they enhance user experience, streamline internal processes, and foster a culture of quality and continuous improvement.