Software engineering salaries are determined by three budgets: sales/marketing, research and development, and maintenance. The budget that pays your salary will greatly impact your daily work and career trajectory. The sales/marketing budget focuses on immediate impact and quantifiable results, but it can lead to a competitive culture. Research and development emphasizes long-term growth and a balanced environment, while maintenance is often undervalued and seen as a cost to be minimized. Understanding which budget your work falls under is crucial for shaping your work experience.
https://swizec.com/blog/the-3-budgets/