I guess that depends on whether they are operating as software engineers or software artists. Sure, an artist can have leeway for their creative efforts. But a

I guess that depends on whether they are operating as software engineers or software artists. Sure, an artist can have leeway for their creative efforts. But allowing artists to work on a muse-driven timeline is also why the stereotype of a "starving artist" exists. Engineers on the other hand have some product with at least a baseline of utilitarian value. Those generally need timelines because somebody is planning on a delivery of that utility. But I think both those are besides the point. You can have a structured process that also integrates creativity. I think treating them as mutually exclusive is a false dichotomy.