What is a Software Applications Developer?

A software applications developer is a computer expert who programs, develops and creates various software solutions. As illustrated below, the actual job duties of a software applications developer vary based on their computer specialization.

Software Applications Developer – Gaming

A software applications developer who works in the gaming industry will design and write timely and succinct programming code. They will strive to create codes that are logical, optimized, resourceful and error free. In order to accomplish this, they will use game engine platforms to design, test and refine game elements and interactions. They will conduct quality tests, then debug and document issues and incompatibilities. They must evaluate and enhance the efficiency of programs to meet current and future end user needs.

They will work with teams of visual, design and graphic artists and developers to create the best gaming experience within time, budget and technology constraints. They must have a thorough understanding of software development values, procedures, cycles and methodologies. They should have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming or engineering. They will need game engine and simulation platform programming experience in C#, C++, .NET or JavaScript. They should have experience with 3D content pipelines like Max, Maya and Photoshop in game engines.

Software Applications Developer – ERP

Software applications developers may only deal with enterprise resource planning (ERP) applications and system enhancements. They must be familiar with client-server and web-based applications like NET and SharePoint frameworks. They will be responsible for supporting enterprise resource planning (ERP), customized software systems and enterprise applications. They may be responsible for the development, manufacture and distribution of specialized systems and critical applications. They must have a working knowledge of commonly-used practices and procedures.

This means they must understand development methodologies, distributed systems architectures and in-house enterprise application technologies. Most employers will expect these software applications developers to have a master’s degree in systems, software or electronic engineering. They may qualify for jobs by having previously worked as a software consultant, engineer, architect or developer. They will need knowledge or previous experience with ERP development tools, practices and standards.

Software Applications Developer – Engineering

Software applications developers who are members of software engineering teams will develop and maintain various enterprise-wide systems and applications. They must have the demonstrated the ability to work in a fast paced environment while ensuring that project budgets, deadlines and initiatives are met. They may build game-changing software applications and analytics solutions for various industries. They should have experience with networking, engineering and communications solutions design and development. They should have experience mentoring and training subordinate computer professionals and assistant engineers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

They will need to have the relationship and community building skills to tackle and resolve complex technical issues. Most employers want them to have specific experience in analytics, database, big data or business intelligence products. Some employers will want them to have commercial software development experience and strong object-oriented design and coding skills. They should have the ability to diagnose difficult functional and performance systems issues within limited time frames. A degree in software engineering is recommended for anyone who wants to enter this technical field of work.

Related Resource: Computer and Information Systems Manager

Software applications developers are a kind of software developer who create programs, but systems software developers are those who create the systems, infrastructure and environments that run the programs.