Ask HN: Do SWEs need a tool for gaining insight and exploring creativity?
I&#x27;m exploring the idea of developing a tool to enhance software engineers&#x27; creativity and insight generation during the development process. Key concepts include:<p>1. A note-taking system similar to Obsidian, but tailored for code-related insights.<p>2. Lightweight prototyping capabilities integrated with or separated with mainstream IDEs.<p>3. Features to stimulate non-linear thinking and problem-solving.<p>4. Visualization tools for understanding complex systems and algorithms.<p>Some questions I&#x27;m pondering:<p>- How do you currently spark creativity in your development process?<p>- What challenges do you face when trying to innovate within standardized development workflows?<p>- Would a tool focusing on creativity and insight generation be valuable in your work?<p>- For those in research or tackling complex problems, what features would you find most useful?<p>I&#x27;m particularly interested in hearing from SWEs working on cutting-edge technologies, research, or complex system design.<p>Your thoughts and experiences would be incredibly valuable. Thanks!