It's more complicated than that. For example, software in car or electronics companies is not a cost center, but is nevertheless treated as an ugly stepchild mo

It's more complicated than that. For example, software in car or electronics companies is not a cost center, but is nevertheless treated as an ugly stepchild most of the time. They usually have a culture, where "hardware" engineering (mechanical, electrical etc.) is real engneering, while software is easy in comparison and thus can be deprioritized.