# Forward-Deployed Engineering
Forward-deployed engineering places senior engineers alongside client teams to resolve ambiguity and turn complex operational problems into production capability.
Forward-deployed engineering is how we work alongside domain teams when the problem cannot be understood or solved from a distant delivery queue.
## Embedded with the problem
Senior engineers work directly with operators, leaders and subject-matter experts. They observe real constraints, test assumptions quickly and connect technical choices to the outcome. This reduces the translation loss between discovery, design and implementation.
## When this model fits
The model suits work where requirements emerge through use: complex operations, new AI capabilities and products that must fit existing teams, controls and systems.
## A delivery model, not staff augmentation
Forward-deployed engineers take responsibility for a defined outcome rather than filling seats. We shape the work, build the system and prepare it for client ownership.
## Capability left in the organisation
Working software is paired with decisions, documentation and knowledge transfer so the client team can operate, extend or take ownership of what is built.
## Delivery areas
- [Governed Workflow Platforms](/what-we-build/governed-workflow-platforms)
- [Digital Products and Platforms](/what-we-build/digital-products-platforms)
## Frequently asked questions
### What is a forward-deployed engineer?
A forward-deployed engineer is a senior software engineer who works directly with the people who have the problem. Instead of building from a written specification, they observe the operation, test assumptions with users and ship working software in short cycles. Palantir made the role well known. We use the same model for mid-market and enterprise organisations.
### How is a forward-deployed engineer different from a solutions engineer?
A solutions engineer usually supports a sale: they configure and demonstrate an existing product. A forward-deployed engineer builds what the client needs, inside the client's environment, and is responsible for it working in production.
### Is forward-deployed engineering the same as staff augmentation?
No. Staff augmentation fills seats under your direction. Our forward-deployed engineers take responsibility for a defined outcome. We shape the work, build the system and prepare it for your team to own.
### When does a forward-deployed team make sense?
It suits work where requirements only become clear through use: complex operations, new AI capabilities and products that must fit existing teams, controls and systems. If the requirements are already stable and well documented, a conventional delivery team may cost less.
### Does Rodan provide forward-deployed engineers in the UK?
Yes. Rodan is based in London and places senior forward-deployed engineers with clients in the UK and internationally. The people you meet at the start are the people who do the work.
HTML: https://rodan.io/forward-deployed-engineering