The evolution of the application of software is as old as the computer itself. Software development is often synonymous with software engineering. Both of these terms can have hard or soft values in relation to the activities involved, which can include various degrees of programming. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Software Development is expected to grow exponentially at 30 percent in coming years. As a result, it is worthwhile to note some of the important things to know about its development.

Macro vs. Micro Implications of Software Development

Software Development is no longer bound to in-house box development or design. It is often integrated into cloud computing, remote applications, and everyday objects such as appliances. As a result, a good designer will need to quickly scan the user’s expertise in terms of experience. The software developer may need to see things from the perspective of users with everyday limitations for usability requirements. According to designer Donald Norman, author of The Design of Everyday Things, a designer needs to understand logical, physical, and cultural constraints on every object.

Software Development and the Emergence of Other Fields

When software development began in the early days of computing, the field was heavily organized under programming language and company-specific programs. The internet, open source applications, expanding programming language, and ease of use created a cottage industry of developers and designers in the marketplace. The result is development that makes use of functionality and user-centered design. A software developer will not only need to understand systems models, but will also need an artist’s rendering of how a device may function with a specific object. As a result, knowledge in biology, psychology, art, and design are important in the world of software development.

Familiarity With Development Models Affects Security

There are many development models in place, including Agile, Waterfall, RAD, and Iteritive. These are the most common models used by most developers. With the influx of cloud computing on every level, the importance of a quality model will indirectly affect the security of the software. As a result, software developers need to have good working knowledge of these various models. Working knowledge in all areas will give a high degree of leverage in this field as well as a consumer understanding of how software is developed.

The Psychology of Software Design

When software goes to the drawing table, there is a long process involved in understanding the user. As a result, user testing and a high degree of understanding the mind of the user is involved. In fact, one of the duties of a software developer is analyzing the user’s needs, then designing and re-testing to meet those needs. Extensive knowledge of consumer behavior and social psychology is useful.

Several Skills are Required Outside the Scope of Software Development

In addition to design and computer skills, a developer needs to have project management, self-teaching, and practical artist rendering skills, making software development a highly flexible field with many degrees of success for the self-engaged student.

The author, Travis Leander, has years of experience as a software developer and is currently a freelance blogger hoping to inform readers with useful information. He currently recommends checking out one of the many professional software development services for more questions.