On this episode, we have Jayz Carrillo, Andrea Faith Alimorong, Charles Mejica Madronero, and Alex joining us to discuss "Solo vs Squad: The Art of Choosing the Right Team in Tech Projects" and Why your teammates can make or break your hackathon or capstone project.

When it comes to tech projects, who you work with often matters just as much as what you build. This episode explores the dynamics of choosing teammates—whether you're working solo, with friends, or forming a squad for a capstone, thesis, or hackathon. We’ll talk about team roles, communication challenges, and how to build something great without losing your mind (or your friendships).

What qualities do you look for in a good teammate for tech projects? (Generalization)

When I'm looking for a good teammate, reliability is at the top of my list. I also value strong communication skills and a willingness to collaborate. Beyond technical skills, someone who is proactive and has a positive attitude can really make a difference in a project's success.

Have you ever had a team experience that went really wrong—or really right? (Generalization)

Oh, absolutely! I once worked on a hackathon project where our team clicked instantly. We had diverse skills, communicated openly, and supported each other through the long hours. That project ended up winning an award. On the flip side, I've been in situations where miscommunication and a lack of shared vision led to a very stressful and ultimately unsuccessful outcome.

How do you handle teammates who aren’t pulling their weight? (Generalization)

This is a tough one, but try to address it directly and privately first. then initiate a conversation to understand if there are any underlying issues or if they're struggling with specific tasks. Sometimes, it's about re-distributing work or offering support. If the problem persists, escalating to a team lead or mentor might be necessary, but always prioritize finding a solution that benefits everyone.

When do you think it’s better to work solo rather than in a group? (Generalization)

I think working solo is better when the project is small in scope and requires a very specific, individualized skill set. If the project doesn't benefit from diverse perspectives or extensive collaboration, going solo can be more efficient. It also allows for complete creative control, which can be appealing for certain types of work.

What are some effective strategies for resolving conflicts within a tech team? (Generalization)

Effective conflict resolution in a tech team often boils down to active listening and focusing on the problem, not the person. Establishing clear communication channels and having a designated mediator (if needed) can help. It's crucial to encourage open dialogue, respect different viewpoints, and find a mutually agreeable solution that prioritizes the project's success.