Software Development

What Is Software Development?

Software developers oversee the software creation process from beginning to end. They consider the purpose of an application and envision how it will be put to use. Developers draw flow charts used by programmers that explain an application’s hierarchy. Workers must be diligent, as mistakes cost time and money.

These professionals create operating systems, which are pieces of code that tell computers how to function at a base level. They also make software that runs within those operating systems, such as word processors and music players. The development of computer programs, phone apps, and video games requires dedication and creative vision.

Associates also build network systems that control switches, routers, and firewalls. Developers must consider the security of their software to protect users from unwanted snooping or data sharing. Thanks to online updates, workers can make security or bug fixes to source code after a program has been released.

Those with software development manager jobs oversee projects to ensure they’re on track for release. They also monitor budgets to keep costs within reason, and supervise quality to verify standards are being met. Senior developers are sometimes referred to as information technology project managers.

What Are Software Development Job Duties?

Depending on the company they work for, software development jobs require a variety of functions to be performed. They are mostly responsible for planning and helping to program computer software. While some of these workers create applications, others perform the maintenance that keeps networks and hardware operational. In a nutshell, software developers make custom programs specific to company or client.

Associates are not only responsible for developing software, they must also run bug tests. Developers must ensure each piece of computer code works as intended within an overall program. Additionally, workers maintain their employer’s hardware and software for proper function.

Software developers design flow charts and hierarchies describing application structure. These diagrams are relied upon by coders during the programming phase. Developers provide coders with guidance and instruction. However, in smaller companies, software developers often do most of the coding themselves. Other duties for these workers include:

• Implement programming guidelines based on client requests and the nature of the software
• Create operating systems for specific purposes or organizations
• Work in teams alongside other software developers and computer programmers
• Gain an understanding of what needs to be done and then delegate tasks to programmers
• Develop cloud-based applications for use over private intranets and the public internet
• Collaborate with graphic artists to design user-friendly interfaces
• Assist programmers in writing code to build software

Are There Other Software Development Job Duties?

To keep up with security patches and new features, workers must upgrade software systems as needed. They consult employers and third parties on hardware upgrades that could deliver improved stability or faster performance. Most workers document all maintenance and upgrade records for future reference.

Designers may be commissioned to make custom software, such as inventory tracking tools. Other times they create commercial software intended for use amongst the general public, like spreadsheet software or video games. During the development of AI (artificial intelligence) algorithms or certain tracking software, developers may build databases of the following types of info:

• Images
• Videos
• Documents
• Purchase histories and habits
• Consumer information such as names and addresses
• Personal data scraped from social media sites
• Video game playing habits
• Internet browsing tendencies

What Types of Abilities Should Software Developers Possess?

Software developers need coding skills, and they often begin their careers as programmers. These workers create operating systems used in phones, cars, watches, and other devices. They perform a variety of tasks, but are mostly responsible for planning and programming computer software.

Those looking for entry level software development jobs should know at least one programming language. Common coding standards include the following:

• Python is used to make all types of programs, including games, web apps, and general software. It’s widely supported due to its large user base and relative ease of debugging.
• Ruby is great for those new to coding, as it features lots of tools and helpful instructional libraries. Friendly and forgiving design elements make it so users don’t need to know much about programming syntax, or the order of commands relative to one another. Ruby isn’t the best language to use for creating complex websites or intricate applications.
• Java has many uses across several types of hardware, including the operating systems seen in vehicles and video game systems. It is the foundation of the Android operating system. It’s often used in mobile development and is good for cross-platform collaboration.
• Used by many industry leaders, SQL has clearly stated standards to minimize confusion. The language is open source, meaning anyone can modify it as they see fit. The fact that there’s not much actual code writing involved makes it a great starting point for beginners.
• LISP is very customizable, featuring modifiable syntaxes that can adapt to many programming styles. The language is often used in AI development due to its flexibility and ease of testing and debugging.
• One of the most complex yet rewarding programming languages, C is closely related to C++ and C#. It is used widely, with knowledge of C providing a development foundation that helps programmers better understand other languages.
• Often used when building web apps, PEARL is open source and flexible. Its features are expandable with several add-ons and enhancements to meet various needs. This language is compatible with Java and C++ for further customization.
• MATLAB features easy to understand syntax with lots of functions and features. Its simple data analysis techniques help while debugging and analyzing large amounts of info.