By DeVry University
May 13, 2023
10 min read
Technology
May 13, 2023
10 min read
Software developers use programming and design knowledge to build software that meets the needs of users. Typically, they will meet with a client who has a need for software to be developed, and then will build, test and deploy that software based on the specifications they have received.
Today, software developers are some of the most vital people in many aspects of the economy. Software isn't just codes, video games and apps, it's the driving force of every computerized device on the planet.
In this article, you'll learn about the essential duties that software developers perform and the skills that they may utilize in the field as we answer the following questions:
Software developers design, program, build, deploy and maintain software using many different skills and tools. They also help build software systems that power networks and devices and ensure that those systems remain functional. Their job may also involve meeting with clients to determine the needs for a software solution, which will help them design the final product.
Software developers work in a wide variety of industries, and some even work as freelancers. Software is involved across virtually every industry to power the devices and applications used within that field. You can find software developers working in business, technology, defense, healthcare, aerospace and manufacturing.
Depending on the setting, a software developer may work alone or on a team with other developers and programmers. In general, larger companies tend to have teams of developers due to the complexity of the software they are designing.
Software developers utilize a wide range of skills that enable them to oversee a team and get directly involved in the application programming and computer systems design process. The skills a software developer may need include technical computer science skills used in programming and soft skills that help maintain productivity and professionalism:
Linux
Linux is an open-source operating system (OS) that is highly customizable and contains several tools that are useful for programmers, such as sed, awk piping and grep. The OS is also more secure than most, making it useful for improving the cyber security of software.
Software engineering
Software engineering refers to the entire process of building a piece of software. Having software engineering skills means that you are capable of designing software that accomplishes a specific goal using programming and analytical skills.
Development operations (DevOps)
DevOps involves several practices that blend together information technology (IT) and software development skills. It involves careful management of resources with the goal of delivering functional software quickly and affordably.
Programming languages
Software developers need to have a grasp of programming languages. Which particular languages they need to know depends on the industry they work in and the software they develop. Some common programming languages include Python, Java, C#, SQL and HTML.
Data structures and algorithms
A thorough knowledge of data structures and algorithms enables developers to write efficient code. Data structures are methods of organizing data, such as sequences of numbers or data tables. Algorithms are sequences of steps that a computer takes to transform the data into functionality for the user, as in searching or sorting. Frequently used data structures in programming languages include linked lists, stacks and queues, sets, maps and search trees.
Problem-solving capabilities
Most software is designed to provide a solution to a problem. Software developers must be able to identify the issue that a piece of software aims to remedy and build software that solves the problem. They also need these capabilities to address any issues that come up during the development process or to work out bugs.
Communication skills
Developers may manage a team of programmers, which means they need to be able to clearly communicate expectations and talk through solutions. Additionally, they may be responsible for providing detailed reports on the development process to executives who likely do not have a technology background.
Analytical thinking
When building software, a developer constantly analyzes the state of the software and its code. As they do this, they need to determine whether the software is likely to achieve its goal. Analysis may also be needed during the design process to conceptualize something that solves the unique challenges facing their client or the end users.
Patience
Practicing patience can be an important soft skill for software developers because the development process can be lengthy and, at times, quite complex. Patience can help you keep your motivation going strong amid setbacks or an evolving scope of work. Patience is also an essential tool for developing and maintaining strong interpersonal relationships, especially in potentially trying situations such as working against deadlines or getting a new hire up to speed in the middle of a project.
Emotional intelligence
When unforeseen circumstances threaten to derail your progress or distract you from achieving organizational goals, emotional intelligence helps you remain calm and focused. A high degree of emotional intelligence, when used effectively, can help defuse emotionally charged situations, find points of commonality, compromise with your teammates or enable you to communicate better as you try to understand the challenges your peers might be facing. In fact, companies seek out managers with high levels of empathy and emotional control, as they are often more likely to inspire employee loyalty and trust.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that software developers, software quality assurance analysts and testers are likely to see new job opportunities created in the coming years due to the increasing number of products—including consumer electronics, IoT-connected devices and electric vehicles—that use software.
The BLS projects overall employment of software developers to grow 25% on a national level between 2021 and 20311, a rate that is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Software application developer
Software programmer and analyst
Mobile device programmer
Mobile app developer
Graduates of our online Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development may consider such careers as
Software application developer
Web program analyst
Software systems developer
Mobile device software developer
Software developer for web portals and e-commerce apps
Software game developer
Data analyst
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If you want to make your mark in software development, we can help. At DeVry, our career-focused curriculum helps you build skills needed for today’s Internet of Things (IoT) economy with hands-on learning taught by faculty with real-world experience.
Our online Undergraduate Certificate in Software Design and Solutions teaches basic data analytic skills, management and organizational skills and helps you understand software design patterns.
In our online Bachelor’s Degree in Software Development you can gain a solid foundation of knowledge in operating systems, programming, hardware and connectivity and explore the professional, ethical, security and social responsibilities related to software systems. Focus on the area of development that interests you by choosing one of 3 degree specializations: Software Design and Programming, Big Data and Analytics or Web and Mobile Application Development.
Let’s talk about your career goals and how we can help you get started in our next session. Classes start every 8 weeks.
1Growth projected on a national level. Local growth will vary by location. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/Computer-and-Information-Technology/Software-developers.htm#tab-1
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