What does “team” mean when the technology allows you to build perfectly good software by exchanging short, on-topic, asynchronous messages with a rotating cast of anonymous strangers?

I don’t think it’s necessary to be physically present to build software, but if you do go remote, go all the way. Trying to build a sense of camaraderie over Zoom is a tragic farce.

My team is distributed around the US. A number of people joined after the pandemic started, which forced the firm to go from fully in-house to fully-remote overnight.

Our experience is that a team that works together to solve problems builds camaraderie. The tools and tech are all there and very easy and affordable.

A few weeks ago we met up for lunch after being away from each other for over a year. Nothing about our meeting gave us the impression that we'd grown apart from working remotely.

Of course, the size of your investment and your returns may vary.