Hey everyone! I'm a 26-year-old recent Computer Science grad and just finished a few months as an intern. Now I've taken a role at a non-tech company as their only IT Automation Engineer, which is exciting but also daunting since I'm basically flying solo. My first project involves using Google Sheets and Apps Script to automate their processes. They were hoping this would be an easy and budget-friendly solution, but as I've started building what they need, I've realized the requirements are much more complicated than expected. I've hit a roadblock and I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed trying to sort everything out on my own. I don't have experience in creating scalable systems in Google Workspace. What do you guys recommend I do to move forward? Any advice, resources, or best practices for working with Google Sheets and Apps Script at scale would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!
7 Answers
You’re definitely in a tough spot. Transparency with your management about the project’s scope is critical. Don’t hesitate to push back on unrealistic timelines or expectations. Show them a realistic path forward that allows for proper planning and development. They might just appreciate the insight and find a way to support you better.
Start by breaking down the project into smaller, manageable tasks based on business requirements. It's tempting to work on things quickly, but you'll avoid burnout if you plan ahead. Make sure to keep track of how long each feature takes and communicate those timelines to your manager. They'll appreciate the insight, and it can help you gauge if deadlines are realistic.
Honestly, it's concerning they're expecting so much from just Google Sheets. As the only IT person, you should clarify the risks of this approach to your boss. Build a case showing how other tools could better fit the company’s needs. Highlighting the potential pitfalls might help them understand the necessity for change and additional support.
It sounds like quite a challenging situation! I’d suggest you first communicate with your supervisor about the difficulties you’re facing. It's crucial not to keep all the stress to yourself. Present a plan outlining the complexities and help establish your priorities—that will help manage everyone's expectations moving forward.
Being the only IT person definitely adds a layer of stress. My advice: document everything you're running into, and don't shy away from addressing those concerns with your boss. Framing it as a conversation about finding better solutions can help you avoid being labeled as just a 'complainer.' Your project's complexity deserves a thoughtful approach, not just a rush to get it done.
Bear in mind, Google Sheets and Apps Script come with limitations that might not suit larger projects. They can be useful for smaller tasks, but you might want to explore integrating with more robust systems for scalability. Definitely bring your concerns to your team; sometimes getting that conversation going can lead to better solutions or adjustments in expectations.
You've got to think strategically about your project management skills here. Make sure you capture not only the features you’re developing but also any challenges you face along the way. Communicate your needs for further resources or support, and don’t hesitate to consider whether this job is what you really want. It's crucial to work in an environment that values your input, especially when the workload gets tough!
Thanks for the tip! I'll make sure to keep a log of everything and communicate effectively.