This month, we catch up with Nirmala Arumugalingam, our Software Developer.
As an experienced software engineer, her deep insights and broad experiences help us develop and maintain tools to keep Zaui software the best choice for tour and activity operators. With three years of Zaui experience to her credit, she now has an amazing knack for translating client feature requests into lines of code.
In her quiet time, Nirmala enjoys spending time with family and friends. Her favourite pastime is doing inspiring small projects with her son. And their next project in the pipeline is making a “Bird Nest!” 😊
What’s your process while working on a new project?
Obtain initial requirements, understand the concepts, discuss with team members to explore more options, and analyze and make a list of tasks to be deliverable. Sometimes if I need help understanding the project, I will read relevant articles and also speak to the experts in the company.
What is the most exciting part of being a Software Developer at Zaui?
I believe learning is getting bigger in Zaui. Also, friendly co-workers make the experience more pleasant. I love the autonomy Zaui offers, which allows me to work in a way that suits me. Remote work options and bi-weekly Zaui days off also provide an excellent work-life balance. Zaui lets me enjoy working collaboratively as well as individually.
How have you been able to learn and grow at Zaui?
Certainly, with my experience, I learned a lot from Zaui— New tools for development, unit test and new languages. I’m basically a back-end developer, but Zaui gave me opportunities to learn front-end language as well. I am still learning how to implement new projects and release management. Also, I keep learning a lot about the tourism industry.
Do you have a routine that helps you stay productive? 
As I work remotely, getting fresh air before starting my work keeps me recharged. Throughout the day, I try to concentrate on a task, take breaks, and set small objectives to complete.
What was the favourite Zaui project and why?
ALL Zaui projects are my favourites. Each project gives me a chance to learn new things. Every aspect of it —exploring the code level, improving team collaboration, discussing roadblocks productively and finally, delivering a user-friendly feature for tour and activity operators—is a learning experience.
What does your workday look like?
My day begins with checking my emails to prioritize my tasks. We follow Agile Methodology; I attend meetings that plan and evaluate project tasks. Also, respond to other teams’ requests and assist them. If I have a roadblock, I never hesitate to contact my team immediately to get help. I always make sure I help my teammates as well.
The best compliment you heard from your manager?
👆This 😊. My manager’s appreciation made me feel like I did something to maintain the software development process and ensure the quality of the software.
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
Spending time with family and friends makes me feel alive. My son and I used to do some inspiring small projects. I know it sounds funny, but our present project is making a “Bird Nest!” I’ve come to realize that birds are excellant creative builders.
What’s the most common question people ask when they find out what you do?
“Wow, the tourism industry! Then you know plenty about tours and offers. “: -)
What do you do to turn things around when you’re having a bad day?
I often go for a walk to get some fresh air. It helps me distract my mind so I can be positive and fearless.
What advice would you give to new Zauians in their first month?
Take your time to understand the aspects of the software before you begin your actual work.
