
It was easy, but at least it was performed by an engineer.
Talented engineers who are committed to doing the best work and will go above and beyond to pull it off.
Stop changing company directions every couple of years and let things play out and back decisions with transparent data for your employees.
People generally care that things go right and will voice their opinions, regardless of whether management listens. Work relationships that form last and go beyond just work.
Take a look at your competition around town and stop pretending you're not vying for the same talent. Either pay market comp or settle for lower standards. Can't preach you hire the best when you don't pay like it.
Management are making seemingly poor, ill informed decisions without transparency nor accountability. Engineers are left to suffer the consequences. Get more competent managers who have actual engineering experience, not those who didn't make the engineer grade early in their careers.