[btowngar]

I feel that some people are very good at seeing problems, and some people are very good at finding solutions to problems.

I don't see any reason that the same skills should be present in any given individual, so you always need both types.

[taurath]

To me its part of the taxonomy of becoming a more experienced developer:

- First you can implement solutions (jr level) - Then you can design solutions (mid level, sometimes senior - most of time is spent here) - Then you can find problems that need solutions (senior, management)

[csours]

I understand what you are saying. How does someone who is good at seeing problems communicate those problems and not come off as whiny and complaining?

[dsp1234]

I often hear "Ugh, it's tiring you telling us what all the problems are, why can't you tell us the solution?".

But I get "Man, I'm so glad you saw that problem way back at the design stage. We really dodged a bullet there." about 3-4 times as often.

What I generally don't hear is, "OMFG, our project is about to fail. Why did no one see that this issue was coming and do something about it!".

The assumption that anyone noting a problem is just whining and complaining is a good way to tank a project. I've seen that type of thinking prevail, and it sucks for everyone.