There's a middle ground: developers that need to be told what problem to work on, but who are smart enough to take it from there. It's very useful to have a fe

There's a middle ground: developers that need to be told what problem to work on, but who are smart enough to take it from there. It's very useful to have a few of those on the team, because as a manager it allows you to ensure certain priorities are met, whilst giving those that thrive on freedom the space they need. So, to answer your question: I'd rather have both.