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Software Developer The work Software developers are responsible for designing, installing, testing and maintaining software systems used by commercial and manufacturing organisations in their IT systems. In the past, these systems often required total replacement as they were overtaken by rapid developments in technology. This was time-consuming and expensive and is now being replaced by integrating 'off-the-shelf' software packages into an existing system. These new or amended systems are formed by 'bolting together' existing software products, creating only the code to link them together rather than writing every line of code for the whole system. A software developer responsible for installing a new system, or updating an existing system, would:
The software developer would then lead a team, including systems analysts, which:
Software developers now need knowledge of software packages available on the market, together with the ability to integrate them. Computer-assisted software developing (CASE) tools are now used extensively to automate much of the programming process, making it easier for a knowledgeable programmer to fill both functions. Hours and Environment Working hours are typically 9am-5pm, possibly with some extra hours - especially when projects are near to completion. In sectors such as finance and consultancies, longer working hours may be the norm. Skills and Interests Software developers should:
Entry The most usual entry requirement for a career as a software developer is a degree or OND/HND. Older applicants usually need some business and IT experience. Many people develop computer skills when working in other fields such as financial services, insurance, banking or accounting, and a computer-related degree is not essential for entry as the necessary training may be available in-house. The computer industry is flexible about qualifications and experience tends to be a greater asset than formal qualifications in many jobs. As software developers become more involved in the commercial aspects of their work, prior experience in other areas is now becoming even more relevant. It is sometimes possible to enter computing work at a basic level and work towards responsible posts, including those in different areas of IT. Non-IT graduates can study for postgraduate conversion courses. Entrants with business and IT experience may be able to move into this area from other sectors. An understanding of some of the main programming languages is essential for this role.
Companies such as Microsoft have their own professional certification and technical certifications by manufacturers are becoming a common way of measuring a level of competency in prospective employees. Training Microsoft have their own professional certification and technical certifications by manufacturers are becoming a common way of measuring a level of competency in prospective employees. Opportunities Software developers are now employed across the whole range of commerce and industry, public services, utilities, defence and research. Many opportunities occur overseas, either with UK-based companies, with companies based in the Middle East or the USA, or with international organisations such as the EU. Database, multimedia and artificial intelligence programming skills are particularly sought after. Promotion to senior or lead developer and then to project manager is a common way forward. Movement into related areas such as systems design and architecture are also possible. Experienced professionals can become self-employed and work on a contract or consultancy basis. Annual Income Further information Microsoft UK Oracle Skills Framework for the Information Age (SFIA) Certified Internet Webmaster (CIW) Developer.com |
