I recently had a thought-provoking conversation with a peer in the consulting industry, which led me to explore Palantir’s Forward Deployed Engineer (FDE) strategy. It got me wondering: are traditional engineering project consulting roles evolving into something more?
With the increasing simplification and commoditization of core DE tasks, it’s possible that the role is shifting closer to the business. As a result, branding oneself as a FDE – specializing in a domain, working in-territory, and focusing on long-term analytics and DE tasks to support clients – might be the key to securing high-paying opportunities in the platform and data worlds.
What’s Driving This Shift?
The commoditization of DE tasks is largely driven by automation and the proliferation of low-code/no-code tools. This means that many routine DE tasks can now be performed by non-technical users or automated workflows. As a result, the value proposition of traditional DE roles is changing.
The Rise of the FDE
FDEs, on the other hand, are specialized engineers who work closely with clients to develop customized solutions. They possess a deep understanding of the client’s business and are able to leverage their technical expertise to drive meaningful insights and value.
Is This the Future of Elite DE Jobs?
It’s possible that elite DE jobs will increasingly require FDE skills and expertise. By focusing on high-value tasks and developing strong relationships with clients, DEs can differentiate themselves and command higher salaries.
What Does This Mean for DEs?
If this trend continues, DEs will need to adapt and develop new skills to remain competitive. This might involve acquiring domain expertise, learning to work closely with clients, and developing a deeper understanding of business needs.
Further reading: What is a Forward Deployed Engineer?