So, you’re an app developer looking to build an application that is compatible with a wide range of existing applications and systems. In such a vast, highly competitive field, you know that UI design is everything, and having an app that is easy to use, runs smoothly, and has a wide variety of use cases is your best bet to make a product that sticks around.
You know where you are, and you know where you want to go; but how do you get there? App developers like yourself have a wide range of tools to choose from, and knowing which ones will suit your needs and which won’t gives you a huge leg up.
Whether you’re a developer with a vast knowledge base and a deep understanding of how these tools work, or an entrepreneur who wants to get a head-start on executing your plans for the future, this article will give you the lowdown on the best tools for cross development on the market.
A Brief Overview: Technological Advances in the Planning Phase
Before we dive into the tools themselves, let’s briefly explore how modern technological advances can make your app development process easier. These tools are meant to refine and streamline the planning phase of development, making the process of transitioning from a wireframe to a visual design significantly simpler; especially for collaborative efforts.
We have:
Lucidspark: Lucidspark is a free tool that you and your coworkers can use to streamline the collaborative design process. The mind-mapping technology acts as a whiteboard for all of your team’s ideas, allowing you to chart out the infrastructure of your app, break down complex ideas, and align stakeholders on your app’s overall structure.
Sketch: Sketch is a user-friendly vector-design tool that allows you and your team to build wireframe mockups, transition those to high-fidelity mockups, and create final designs. Useful throughout the app development process, Sketch isn’t free, but some would argue it’s worth every penny.
Core Animator: In-app animations can be a challenge unless you have a tool specifically made for designing and implementing them. Core Animator is one such tool, going the extra mile by not only letting you build animations in-house, but directly translating those animations to code. It’s great for efficient coding and can save you and your team a lot of time otherwise better spent.
The advancements in project management and app design software that are out there are begging to be taken advantage of – so if you feel that using one of these tools will allow your team to proceed more efficiently, don’t hesitate to give them a look!
Choosing the Right Framework
Now that we’ve touched on the planning phase, let’s briefly look at the tools you can use for cross-platform app development. Cross-platform app development can be challenging if done manually, as it would require you to re-code your app repeatedly for each platform while also accounting for subtle nuances between mediums. Fortunately, these tools provide automated support that cuts the redundancy out of this process and shortens your time-to-market.
If you are just starting out, we also recommend getting a firm understanding of basic computer science skills before diving into cross-platform development, as having a base knowledge of programming languages and software development will help you unlock the most value from each of the below tools.
We have:
Titanium: An open-source, JavaScript-based tool that allows developers to reuse designed content across applications. With drag-and-drop functionality and a user-friendly UI, this tool is a massive time-saver for developers that anticipate reusing code across applications.
Ionic: A completely free app development framework that allows you to create applications for various platforms simultaneously. With a vast library of pre-built JavaScript and HTML5 components, this is a great option for developers that are just starting out.
Unity 3D: Developing a game? Unity 3D is a cross-platform app development tool with amazing graphics for its medium. As well as being compatible with most types of mobile operating systems, it also offers options to publish games, track analytics, and access a massive support system.
Kotlin multiplatform: Consistency across platforms is key, so why not go with the best? Kotlin is widely recognized as a powerful industry-agnostic custom cross-platform development tool, allowing developers to target multiple platforms with just one line of code; all without sacrificing the benefits of native technology!
5app: Developing apps for your employees? 5app is a unique tool designed to create cross-platform applications for businesses and their employees. Employers will favor it for its emphasis on data security, its compatibility with most operating systems, and its ease of use!
Node.JS: For organizations that prize flexibility, efficiency, and responsiveness, Node has no equal. Node’s framework allows for the management of multiple platforms at once, and its coding language allows developers to quickly build and deploy flexible server-side applications.
If none of the above meet your specific needs, fear not; there’s such a wide variety of high-quality tools on the market that you’ll find the perfect fit sooner rather than later. Whether you’re working on a game for the public market, a corporate application for shareholder use, or a utility application that meets public demand, there’s a tool to streamline your development process and help you get your product to market quickly.
Imagine a massive interconnected web of physical devices, each with its own IP address, connected to a network through the cloud, offering businesses incredible insights and data with which to drive decision making. In essence, this is what the Internet of Things (IoT) is all about.
While this is a simplified explanation, it does offer a glimpse into the complex landscape of IoT. IoT is considered an ecosystem. That’s because all of its parts rely on one another for full functionality and maximum benefits.
The question that now arises is what is the role of developers in this ecosystem? What are some potential challenges and opportunities they are likely to face in this rapidly accelerating space? That’s what this article covers. So, keep reading to learn more.
Understanding the IoT Ecosystem
The great big IoT ecosystem is named as such for a reason. There are millions of smart devices that are connected to each other and to networks and gateways that enable us to carry out a myriad of tasks and simplify our lives.
There are certain key features that are involved in IoT, such as applications and user interfaces, analytics and data management, the IoT cloud, and of course, the network, gateways, and security. But in short, this ecosystem is primarily characterized by devices and sensors, connectivity, and data processing and storage.
1. Devices and sensors
Let’s begin with devices, sensors, and actuators. This is where the real magic begins. Each of these hardware devices has an IP address and, depending on the functionality in question, can monitor certain metrics and when a threshold is reached, inform a sensor which then triggers the actuator to take an action. Each of these hardware devices has an IP address and, depending on the functionality in question, can monitor certain metrics and when a threshold is reached, inform a sensor which then triggers the actuator to take an action. Adding a logo design can help in distinguishing these devices for easier identification and maintenance in complex systems.
For example, a car that has a built-in sensor to indicate when tire pressure is low. Alternatively, it can be when energy usage reaches a certain level in your home and your light switches are preprogrammed to turn off in order to save power. Whether it’s in our daily lives or in broader industries such as healthcare, agriculture, or even smart cities, the importance of connected devices is undeniable.
2. Connectivity
Connectivity with IoT devices and systems can be wired or wireless — e.g. Bluetooth, 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G. Whether it’s a tablet, computer, smartphone, smartwatch, a smart vacuum cleaner, or something more complex, it’s essential to consider the connectivity options available. Connectivity is important because it takes up energy and power, and can sometimes use up quite a lot, resulting in short- to medium-term availability of battery power.
As such, this power consumption can affect the length of time for which an IoT device is connected and for how long it is operational before an action needs to be taken. With connectivity also comes the importance of considering balancing data rates and ranges.
3. Data processing and storage
One of the ultimate things that an IoT device does collectively is to provide valuable data to drive decision making forward in an informed manner. However, before this data is made available, it needs to be effectively processed. This is where machine learning comes into play and sometimes artificial intelligence (AI) steps in to extract key insights, information, and trends through fast data processing, akin to how a business name generatorrapidly produces diverse naming options.
But that’s not the end. Once data has been processed, it also needs to be stored properly, ensuring strong adherence to security measures. As such, data management is a big factor in providing a safer and more secure IoT usage experience and environment.
Challenges and Considerations in the IoT Landscape
Some of the challenges and considerations that developers face in the IoT landscape are the following:
Security and privacy: Cyber security is a major concern. It’s possible for hackers to infiltrate systems and introduce malicious software through bugs, ransomware, or Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Securing IoT systems and ensuring data protection against these cyber threats is critical.
Interoperability: A second challenge developers face is the issue of interoperability or compatibility issues. Often, this is caused by non-adherence to interoperability standards. Also worth mentioning is the importance of legacy app modernization.
Data overload: Data management comes to the fore once again and critical strategies must be implemented to ensure that organizations are capable of handling vast data volumes.
Power consumption: Servers that support the cloud infrastructure, if not managed accurately, can be large consumers of energy. That’s why it’s also essential to balance functionality with energy efficiency, especially in cases of battery-operated devices.
Ethical and regulatory concerns: A further challenge surrounds the question of data ownership. This is both an ethical and regulatory concern that must be considered. Developers and organizations must acquire consent for the use of user data and provide guarantees that it will not be misused.
Future Direction and Innovations in the IoT Landscape
On the flip side of the coin, there are incredible advancements and innovations in the IoT landscape that are shaping the direction of our digital future. Here are a few worth considering:
5G connectivity: 5G connectivity offers much faster data speeds with a lower latency for improved connectivity.
AI and machine learning integration: Machine learning and AI are capable of processing large volumes of data, strengthening predictive analytics processes and being able to detect anomalies at a fraction of the time.
Sustainability and green IoT: Further opportunities for improvement include the ability of the IoT sector to contribute to minimizing energy consumption for a lower environmental impact.
Blockchain and IoT: The integration of blockchain in IoT can lead to enhanced security and trustworthiness through secure, decentralized, and tamper-proof data management.
Conclusion
The IoT landscape is undoubtedly dynamic and complex. It presents developers with both challenges and great opportunities for growth. Whether creating applications or developing custom software that end-users will interact with, they need to think critically about various aspects.
These include the end-user experience, safety, security, and privacy, sustainability and energy usage, and a whole combination of factors. This should be achieved in a holistic and forward-thinking way as they work toward shaping a connected future for our world.
Any business expert can tell you the importance of customer service. Technological transformation in work environments is inevitable for standing out in the competition.
A study shows that due to satisfactory customer service, 42% of business-to-customer customers increased their interest in after-sales purchasing. On the other hand, 52% of them left the brand due to a bad customer service experience.
Regardless of your industry, from taking orders to underwriting in the insurance industry, AI can revolutionize customer service and many other aspects. The insurance industry is the most beneficiary of AI-integrated customer service. It includes complex data management and fraud detection using a predictable machine-learning model. Artificial intelligence in insurance claims management can deliver tasks error-free and speedily. It would streamline the customer journey for claims, providing a friendly experience for insurers and policyholders.
How AI is Changing the Mood of Employees
Chatbots
Chatbots are AI-integrated, machine-learning operatives that can replace human customer service agents. Expanding a business requires handling customer queries hand in hand, which can be challenging.
Customers dislike waiting more than 50 seconds to respond to their queries so that AI can give instant and specialized responses. This not only speeds up the process but also makes it accurate and efficient. You can train your chatbot according to your needs and general queries.
Virtual Assistants
Besides helping customers directly, AI can help customer service agents to help through repetitive tasks. Monotonous tasks like analyzing customer feedback data can be handled with AI.
It would make positive and satisfactory changes in the work environment, boosting the overall mood of the employees.
Predictability
AI can predict consumer behavior based on their past interaction with your firm. This behavior can be used to upsell related products or services. AI can analyze all this by measuring and analyzing their social sharing, likes and dislikes, and common queries.
Machine learning can analyze big data that would take several days into seconds. This would reduce the cost of human labor and the possibility of error.
How AI is Revolutionary For Customers
All-time active support
Human labor needs breaks on holidays or festivals. AI can work 24/7 for all the days of the year. You don’t have to update your human customer service area to more prominent people, as AI can handle multiple queries simultaneously without hallucinations.
From solving complex queries to ordering pizza, AI can be trained and customized according to your needs. This would also break the language barrier and improve international customer service.
Understanding Customer’s Needs
People need clarification when making big decisions, especially if they are involved in changing insurance firms or investing in stocks. AI can provide scientific and rational reasons to act in a certain way, making the custom journey smoother and more beneficial.
It can also provide detailed comparisons of different products, analyze the consumer’s specifications, and analyze specific trends to provide customers with the best seasonal hot deals.
NLP Analysis
Natural language processing (NLP) is a critical component of customer service. Its importance can be measured by the fact that Google uses NLP to analyze the pages, position them to analyze pages, and give them positions on search engines’ result pages.
AI can effectively measure the customer’s tone and specific keywords in voice intelligence. Sentiment analysis of customer feedback is critical in assessing what your customers think of your services or products.
Benefits of using AI in Customer Service
Cost Effectiveness
Replacing human labor with AI can significantly reduce the cost of management. According to a survey, AI chatbots can save up to $8 billion yearly in corporate expenses. You will need fewer employees, and the cost of electricity, hardware, and buildings will be lessened.
Reliability
Top-notchTop-notch customer service is a critical factor in retaining and attracting new customers. Only businesses with the highest level of customer satisfaction would survive in this competitive market. You must integrate AI into your work environment to stay on top of this competitive customer acquisition race.
Personalization
AI can remember previous chats with users to give the desired information or recommendations based on their history. Using this personalized approach will significantly increase the customer retention ratio.
Challenges in Integrating AI in Customer Service Centres
Require Investment
Transforming the work environment can be costly. Expenses include hardware, training staff, software development costs, and more. The exact price would depend on various factors, including requirements, firm size, and location.
However, business owners should consider the ROI, which can be huge. In addition to the financial gains, it can provide an efficient, deductive, high-quality customer experience.
Training For The New Environment
If you are new to this innovation, many challenges are ahead. AI needs extensive data to train itself for specialized tasks. Moreover, replicating the existing hardware with an integrated AI will cause tech hurdles and challenges.
Data Privacy
With every technological advancement comes the responsibility for data protection from potential threats. You must comply with all the privacy laws of your state. Rules like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) can result in legal action against you if not considered.
Customer Trust
Every novelty takes time to become fully accepted in society. AI is also not the exception. Customers may be skeptical of innovation and hesitate to use AI instead of human agency. They also need time to become aware of its use.
Efficient use can only be applicable with its basic understanding. You can give a manual or video guide describing all the potential usage of AI in customer service.
Customer Experience
User experience is crucial to the success of any software or website. It should be mobile-friendly, as more than 60% of users use mobile devices. Practical strategies like using breadcrumbs can give customers real-time guidance.
Conclusion
Satisfactory customer service is crucial for a business to survive. It increases brand loyalty and retention. Beyond merely responding to queries, it can be used creatively, like giving customers personalized gifts.
Remember that the human touch to any technological transformation can not be ignored. You will eventually need the trained staff to maintain AI-empowered technology.
In the world of software development, productivity is key. Developers are often under pressure to deliver complex projects under tight deadlines, which can be mentally and physically taxing. According to the State of Developer Wellness Report 2024, incorporating healthy snacking habits can be a simple yet powerful way to boost productivity and support mental and physical health. By fueling their bodies with nutritious snacks, developers can sustain energy levels, improve focus, and enhance overall performance, ultimately contributing to the success of complex projects under tight deadlines.
By incorporating healthy snack delivery and office fruit delivery into the workplace, companies can support their developers in maintaining high levels of productivity throughout the day. This initiative not only benefits the individual’s health but also contributes to a more vibrant, energetic, and collaborative work environment. Healthy snacks can act as a powerful tool for boosting concentration, enhancing cognitive function, and ultimately, improving the efficiency and quality of work produced by developers.
The Importance of Healthy Snacking
Enhancing Focus and Concentration
The brain is an energy-intensive organ, consuming about 20% of the body’s total calorie intake. Feeding it the right kind of nutrients can significantly enhance cognitive functions such as focus and concentration. Healthy snacks, rich in proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, provide a steady release of energy, avoiding the spikes and crashes associated with high-sugar and high-fat snacks. This steady energy supply is crucial for developers who spend hours coding, as it helps maintain mental clarity and prevents the afternoon slump that can derail productivity.
Moreover, incorporating specific nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids found in walnuts or flaxseeds can further enhance brain function. These nutrients have been linked to improved cognitive performance, which is essential in solving complex programming problems. By integrating a variety of healthy snacks into their daily routine, developers can significantly improve their focus and concentration, leading to more productive coding sessions.
Boosting Morale and Team Spirit
The act of providing healthy snacks is not just about the physical health benefits; it’s also a gesture that shows the company cares for its employees’ well-being. This can have a profound impact on morale and team spirit. When developers feel valued and supported, their satisfaction and loyalty towards the company increase. This positive work environment fosters collaboration and innovation, as team members are more likely to share ideas and support each other in challenging tasks.
Healthy snack delivery and office fruit delivery services make it convenient for companies to offer a variety of nutritious options to their employees. This variety ensures that there’s something for everyone, catering to different tastes and dietary needs, which can further enhance the inclusive culture of a workplace. As developers enjoy these benefits, they are more likely to feel connected with their team and motivated to contribute their best work, thereby boosting overall productivity.
Healthy Snack Ideas for Developers
Energy-Boosting Snacks
For developers, maintaining energy levels is crucial, especially during long coding sessions. Snacks like almonds, yogurt, and whole-grain crackers can provide the necessary fuel. These snacks are rich in proteins, healthy fats, and fibers, offering a balanced mix of nutrients for sustained energy release. Unlike sugary snacks that offer a quick energy spike followed by a crash, these options help maintain stable blood sugar levels, keeping developers energized and focused.
Another excellent energy-boosting option is the smoothie. A well-crafted smoothie, blending fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, can be a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s not only refreshing but also easy to consume, especially for developers who might neglect full meals when engrossed in their work. With Easy Office Fruit Ordering, smoothies can be tailored to individual tastes and nutritional needs, making them a versatile option for energy replenishment.
Brain-Boosting Snacks
Certain foods are known for their brain-boosting properties. Dark chocolate, for example, contains flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants, which have been shown to improve brain function. It can enhance memory, reaction time, and problem-solving skills, which are crucial for developers tackling complex codes. Similarly, berries, with their high levels of antioxidants, can help improve communication between brain cells, increasing mental agility.
Nuts and seeds are another group of snacks that can positively impact brain health. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, nutrients that have been linked to reduced rates of neurodegenerative diseases and better brain function. Regular consumption of these snacks can contribute to sharper thinking and more efficient problem-solving capabilities, essential for software development.
Conclusion
Healthy snacking is more than just a dietary trend; it’s a strategic approach to boosting developer productivity and enhancing workplace well-being. By choosing snacks that fuel the body and brain, developers can maintain higher levels of energy, focus, and creativity. The introduction of healthy snack delivery and office fruit delivery services makes it easier for companies to provide these benefits, demonstrating a commitment to employee health and well-being.
This investment in healthy snacking can yield significant returns in terms of improved productivity, morale, and team spirit, ultimately contributing to the success of both individuals and the organization as a whole.
If a developer claimed they’ve never had a brush with burnout, it’s either they’re superhuman or they lied. But let’s be real. It’s most likely the latter.
The dynamic world of coding chaos is never easy, especially with those impossible deadlines, poor project timeline estimates, chaotic app development plans, and miss-release schedules. A continuous case like this pushes developers to work beyond what is physically and mentally sustainable.
That’s where the developer burnout comes in.
Endless exhaustion, no productivity, constant negativism– you might think it’s just one of those days that you got super lazy. But turns out it lasts longer than expected.
Recent Gallup surveys reveal most workers (about 76%) experience burnout. And if you’re one of them, there are some practices that can help you bring the spark back and deal with it. We’ll also include statistics from the State of Developer Wellness Report 2024 to support our points and provide additional insights into effective strategies for overcoming burnout.
How Do You Know You Have a Developer Burnout?
Do you know that over half (54%) of developers experience occasional burnout?
It may start when you notice a decline in your enthusiasm for coding, a constant feeling of exhaustion even after a long, good night’s sleep, or a growing sense of cynicism towards your work and projects.
In fact, over 23% of developers feel like they don’t even have a sense of purpose. Each new task feels like a huge chore, and they find it increasingly difficult to summon the motivation to tackle it.
But how do you know that it’s not just you being lazy?
Burnout tends to persist over time. It affects your performance consistently across various tasks and projects. It can manifest physically, such as headaches, muscle tension, or even illness due to chronic stress.
However, you might still enjoy coding. But over time, you find yourself always struggling to muster the energy to engage in it. The work feels meaningless, and every day starts to feel the same.
Meanwhile, feeling lazy might be more sporadic and not necessarily tied to specific circumstances. When you feel lazy, you might experience a temporary lack of motivation or energy, often seeking immediate gratification or avoiding tasks altogether, but without the underlying sense of constant emotional exhaustion.
Burnout typically leads to a decline in the quality of your work, as well as increased errors and difficulty concentrating. If you notice a significant drop in your performance despite your best efforts, it could be a sign of burnout rather than laziness.
How to Deal With Developer Burnout?
The best way is always to seek professional help. But, if you’re looking for immediate strategies to cope with developer burnout, these tips might be helpful to make it less painful and make everything more manageable.
Review and find the trigger
Take some time to reflect on your recent experiences at work and how they have impacted your well-being. Consider moments when you felt particularly stressed, overwhelmed, or demotivated.
The report shows that as many as 76.5% of surveyed developers make time to check on their health and well-being regularly. You can start by looking for patterns or recurring themes in your experiences.
Are there specific tasks, projects, or situations that consistently trigger feelings of burnout? Am I feeling overwhelmed or drained? Am I giving myself enough time for self-care?
Don’t forget the internal factors. Are there any personal habits or thought patterns that might be contributing to your burnout? For example, perfectionism, over-commitment, or difficulty setting boundaries.
When you know the trigger, it will be much easier to gain a better understanding of the factors contributing to your stress and exhaustion.
Go to your safe place
Everyone has their own safe place. Some prefer to do their hobbies, while others like to talk it out to their closest friends or families.
Your safe place is a space or activity where you feel calm, relaxed, and free from stress. It’s a place where you can recharge and rejuvenate your mind and body.
Once you’ve identified your safe place or activity, prioritize making time for it regularly, especially when you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out. Set boundaries to protect this time and ensure that you have dedicated opportunities to recharge and take care of yourself.
Prioritize work-life balance
Developer burnout often starts when you neglect your personal needs and well-being in favor of work demands. This imbalance can lead to chronic stress, exhaustion, and feelings of disillusionment with work.
Fortunately, more and more tech companies are aware of the importance of this work-life balance and are implementing initiatives and policies to support their employees’ well-being.
The same report says that at least 77% of companies accommodate developers’ timeout requests. It’s easier for developers to take the necessary breaks and recharge.
Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life to prevent one from encroaching on the other. Define your specific work hours and commit to unplugging from work-related tasks during personal time.
Understand which tasks and activities are most important to you and allocate your time and energy accordingly. Communicate these boundaries to colleagues and supervisors to ensure they are respected.
Learn to say “no”
Some developers struggle with people-pleasing tendencies, feeling obligated to say “yes” to every request or task that comes their way. This behavior can stem from a desire to be liked, a fear of disappointing others, or a belief that saying “no” is selfish or unprofessional. If you say yes to everything you’ve been asked for, then get ready to feel overworked— just like one-third of other developers.
Remember, you’re a developer, not a superhero. You have limits and boundaries that need to be respected, both by yourself and by others. Constantly saying “yes” to everything can lead to burnout and undermine your ability to perform at your best.
Learning to say “no” is not about being selfish or uncooperative. It means filtering which tasks you really have to do and which ones are not even your responsibilities. All of this is for the sake of your well-being and effectiveness.
Work smarter, not harder
Writing good code takes time and a lot of thinking. Contrary to popular stereotypes, effective developers are not the ones who live and breathe code, stay awake all night to resolve bugs, and memorize their code extensively.
An effective developer works smartly. They focus on solving the right problems in the right way. So, working harder doesn’t always equate to working smarter. Use tools that can streamline the whole process and eliminate those mundane, repetitive tasks.
For example, using version control systems like Git allows developers to manage code changes efficiently, collaborate seamlessly with team members, and track project history effectively.
Integrated development environments (IDEs) such as Visual Studio Code or IntelliJ IDEA offer features like code completion, syntax highlighting, and debugging tools that improve productivity and accuracy.
Wrapping Up
Developer burnout is real. All those lines of code mean nothing if the developers behind them are exhausted, demotivated, and struggling to maintain their passion for their work.
Like the small beetles of life, the small symptoms of burnout can continually become stronger and stronger if we don’t interrupt them. By catching the mild feelings, we give ourselves the time for preventive action. If you want to delve deeper into developer burnout and see the statistics firsthand, download the State of Developer Wellness Report 2024.
Andre Oentoro is the founder of Breadnbeyond, an award-winning explainer video company. He helps businesses increase conversion rates, close more sales, and get positive ROI from explainer videos (in that order). Find him on LinkedIn and Twitter.
When it comes to developers, technical skills aren’t the only thing that matters. In order to survive in the workforce, they must equip themselves with soft skills to avoid miscommunication and gain credibility.
According to a research report, 85% of career success stems from proficient soft skills and people skills. In contrast, hard skills, such as technical expertise and knowledge, contribute only 15% to overall career success.
So, whether you’re a fresh-grad developer or a seasoned one, having well-developed soft skills is necessary. We’ve listed eight essential soft skills for developers to help you improve your professional career.
#1. Analytical Problem Solving
Analytical problem-solving skills are fundamental soft skills for developers, as you will encounter complex technical challenges regularly. This skill helps you break down intricate problems into smaller, more manageable tasks.
Managing your problems helps you quickly identify patterns, root causes, and potential solutions. This skill enables you to navigate through coding errors, optimize algorithms, and design efficient software architectures.
To grow analytics problem-solving skills, experiences play crucial roles. You can engage in activities like participating in coding competitions, solving algorithm puzzles, practicing systematic techniques, or discussing cases with experts.
Collaborating with peers on challenging projects and seeking mentorship from experienced developers give valuable knowledge and perspectives. So, the key is to gain insights and enrich your experience.
#2. Attention to Detail
Minor errors or oversights in code can lead to significant issues, such as software bugs or security vulnerabilities. That’s why attention to detail is necessary to ensure accuracy. Besides, this skill enhances the reliability and maintainability of your code.
When you review code and documentation meticulously, you can catch and rectify errors before they impact the functionality of your software. You can avoid unnecessary mistakes and build credibility as a developer.
To cultivate attention to detail, you can adopt practices such as code reviews and writing comprehensive unit tests. You’re also allowed to utilize code analysis tools to identify potential issues. Using tech helps you be more efficient while keeping your work perfect.
#3. Effective Time Management
As developers, you work with deadlines. What’s more challenging is that you work in a fast-paced working environment. You’ll easily get stressed and behind deadlines without proper time management skills.
Consider practicing prioritizing your tasks to meet project deadlines. Also, effective time management during work hours helps you balance multiple tasks and maintain productivity. Most importantly, you can avoid procrastination and deliver high-quality work timely.
You can improve time management skills using productivity techniques such as performing deep work, creating prioritized to-do lists and setting realistic goals and deadlines. Use project management tools like Kanban boards or task trackers to effectively organize their work and track progress.
#4. Clear Communication
As a developer, you will discuss projects, technical concepts, and problems with your teammates. You may also need to present your ideas and concepts to clients and stakeholders. If you can’t communicate effectively, it may lead to miscommunication and misinterpretation.
Understandably, developing communication skills is challenging. However, you can improve this skill by practicing active listening and using plain language to explain complex concepts.
Break down your ideas or concepts so that others easily understand your messages. You can provide concise and coherent explanations in meetings, emails, and documentation.
In addition, consider seeking feedback from your colleagues. If possible, try participating in communication workshops or training programs to refine your communication skills and build rapport with your teammates.
#5. Collaborative Teamwork
You’ll often find group projects that require you to communicate with teammates. For example, in collaborative coding, you will work with work partners, app designers, product managers, testers, and other stakeholders.
When a collaboration project occurs, make sure you respect others’ opinions even though they may be against your ideas. Show mutual support and consider putting away your personal feelings to achieve greater job satisfaction and project success.
To improve your collaborative teamwork skills, try to actively participate in team meetings, contribute ideas and insights, and respect the opinions of your teammates. With good relationships with your colleagues, you can feel a sense of belonging in the office.
#6. Critical Thinking
Developing critical thinking can take time and vary differently among people. This skill is crucial for developers to evaluate and analyze complex problems. Along with that, critical thinking is also helpful for you to assess different solutions and make informed decisions.
Acts like questioning assumptions, examining evidence, and considering alternative perspectives are parts of critical thinking. These acts will guide you to make well-reasoned conclusions and mitigate issues.
You can engage in code review sessions, brainstorming discussions, and problem-solving workshops with your peers. You can also cultivate a habit of asking probing questions and seeking diverse viewpoints to enhance your analytical reasoning abilities.
#7. Data Security Awareness
Data breaches and cyber threats are prevalent today, so building security awareness is essential for developers. This skill allows you to understand and mitigate risks related to protecting sensitive information within software systems.
Online security is important in safeguarding user data and maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of systems. You can implement appropriate security measures When you know common security vulnerabilities, such as injection attacks, cross-site scripting, and insecure authentication mechanisms.
Additionally, staying informed about industry best practices, emerging security threats, and regulatory requirements helps you address security concerns in software projects. Training programs, security workshops, and certifications in cybersecurity can also equip you with security-related knowledge and skills.
#8. Ethical Conduct
Ethical conduct refers to upholding integrity, honesty, and responsibility in your professional practices and interactions. Meanwhile, developers often face ethical dilemmas related to issues such as user privacy, data ownership, and algorithmic bias.
Adhering to ethical principles and values helps you ensure that your decisions and actions prioritize the well-being and rights of users, stakeholders, and society. But what can be included in ethical conduct?
Typically, it involves considering the potential impacts of technology on individuals and communities. Moreover, it means respecting diversity and inclusivity, as well as promoting transparency and accountability in software development processes.
Engaging in ethical discussions and debates is one of the best ways to grow this skill. You can seek guidance from professionals, ethical frameworks, and codes of conduct while reflecting on the ethical implications of your work.
Conclusion
Writing code isn’t the only job of developers. Even though you’ll spend a lot of time in front of computers, you’ll still need to communicate with others and yourself. Understanding how to behave really does matter for your career success.
In conclusion, soft skills for developers are essential to thrive in the ever-changing and collaborative field of software development. From problem-solving to ethical behavior, each skill plays a vital role in working effectively, communicating clearly, and ensuring project success.
Andre Oentoro is the founder of Breadnbeyond, an award-winning explainer video company. He helps businesses increase conversion rates, close more sales, and get positive ROI from explainer videos (in that order).
Five Must-Know Tips for Keeping Your Personal Data Safe Online
In the digital age, where personal and professional lives are increasingly conducted online, the importance of safeguarding personal data cannot be overstated.
As cyber threats evolve and become more sophisticated, individuals must stay informed and proactive about their online security practices.
This article explores key strategies to enhance your online security, ensuring that your personal information remains protected from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
1. Utilizing Strong, Unique Passwords
One of the most fundamental yet crucial aspects of online security is the use of strong and unique passwords. Passwords are the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your personal accounts. A strong password contains a mix of letters, numbers, and special characters, making it difficult for cyber attackers to guess. Additionally, it’s essential to avoid using the same password across multiple sites. If one site is compromised, having unique passwords can prevent a domino effect that could endanger your other accounts.
Creating and remembering a different password for every account can be challenging. This is where password managers come into play. These tools securely store your passwords in an encrypted format and help you generate strong passwords that meet various security requirements. By using a password manager, you only need to remember one master password, simplifying your online security without compromising it.
Moreover, whenever possible, enable two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of identification beyond your password, such as a fingerprint or a code sent to your phone. Even if someone discovers your password, this second requirement can prevent them from accessing your account.
In addition to utilizing strong passwords and enabling two-factor authentication, it’s worth noting the significance of hardware security keys. Ayan Pahwa’s article ‘Securing Your Digital Life: The Necessity of Hardware Security Key for Developers and Privacy focused Individuals‘ extensively discusses the role of hardware security keys such as the YubiKey in fortifying digital defenses]. Pahwa emphasizes the added layer of security provided by these physical devices, which can mitigate risks associated with password breaches and phishing attacks.
2. Advancing Your Understanding of Online Security
As we delve deeper into the world of digital transactions and online communications, understanding the nuances of online security becomes increasingly critical. Higher education in this field can provide individuals with the expertise needed to navigate and protect against complex cyber threats. Pursuing a masters in information security offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of cybersecurity, from ethical hacking to digital forensics and encryption techniques.
A structured educational program like a masters in information security online not only equips you with advanced knowledge of the latest security measures but also enhances your ability to think critically about cybersecurity strategies.
This education empowers you to better protect your personal data and also provides the credentials to pursue specialized roles in the cybersecurity field, where you can contribute to safeguarding larger systems and networks.
Furthermore, these programs often incorporate real-world scenarios and case studies, which help students understand the practical implications of cyber threats and the effectiveness of different security measures. This real-world application is vital, as it prepares graduates to anticipate and react to cyber threats in a timely and effective manner.
3. Regularly Updating Software and Devices
Keeping your software and devices updated is another critical step in protecting your personal data online. Software updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered since the last update. By delaying these updates, you provide cyber attackers with a window of opportunity to exploit these vulnerabilities and gain unauthorized access to your system.
Ensure that all your devices—computers, smartphones, and tablets—are set to update automatically. This includes your operating systems, applications, and any installed software. Automatic updates remove the burden of having to manually check for updates and ensure that your devices are always protected with the latest security patches.
Additionally, it’s important to be mindful of the software you download. Only download apps and software from trusted sources, such as official app stores or directly from reputable websites. This minimizes the risk of installing malicious software that could compromise your personal data.
4. Educating Yourself and Others
Education is a powerful tool in the fight against cyber threats. Stay informed about the latest online security threats and learn how to protect yourself against them. Many resources are available online, from blogs and articles to webinars and online courses that can help you stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.
Furthermore, share this knowledge with friends and family, especially those who may be less tech-savvy. Older adults, for example, are often targets for online scams. Educating them about how to recognize and avoid such threats can go a long way in protecting their personal information.
5. Securing Your Wi-Fi Network
Securing your Wi-Fi network is a crucial step in protecting your personal data from unauthorized access. An unsecured network is an open invitation for cybercriminals to intercept your internet traffic and access devices connected to your network. This vulnerability can lead to the theft of sensitive information such as financial details, personal emails, and passwords.
To secure your Wi-Fi, start by changing the default username and password that comes with your wireless router. These default credentials are often easily guessable or readily available online, making your network an easy target for attackers. Create a strong, unique password for your router’s admin settings and the network itself. Additionally, enable WPA3 encryption on your router if available, as it provides the strongest security protocol to protect the data transmitted over your network.
Another key step is to disable network name broadcasting. By hiding your network name (SSID), you make it less visible to casual passersby, reducing the likelihood of opportunistic attempts to access your network. Moreover, regularly updating your router’s firmware is crucial as it helps fix security vulnerabilities and improves the router’s overall performance.
Finally, consider setting up a guest network for visitors. This keeps your main network secure because guests connect to a separate network that doesn’t provide access to your primary devices and stored personal data. This separation ensures that your most sensitive information remains protected even if the guest network is compromised.
Conclusion
Protecting your personal data online is a crucial and continuous process. By utilizing strong, unique passwords, updating software regularly, pursuing advanced education in information security, and staying informed about cyber threats, you can significantly enhance your online security. Remember, in the digital world, being proactive about security is far better than dealing with the consequences of a data breach. Through education and the use of advanced security practices, everyone can contribute to a safer online environment.
NLP is quickly reshaping our interactions with both machines and each other. And as AI-powered solutions and services become more integrated into our daily lives, NLP’s role in improving human-computer interactions is becoming more and more important. We can expect its influence to expand even further in the upcoming years. According to Fortune Business Insights, the North American NLP market is projected to grow from US$29.71 billion in 2024 to US$158.04 billion by 2032.
In this article, you will learn about what NLP is, its techniques, and its benefits to consumers and businesses. You will also discover essential NLP skills that will help you start your path in this field.
Discovering Natural Language Processing
Natural language processing (NLP) is a part of the artificial intelligence realm that helps computers understand and interpret human language. It uses machine learning technologies to analyse, decode and generate words and phrases, aiming to figure out what users mean or how they feel.
Thanks to advancements in machine learning techniques like neural networks and other AI-powered solutions that can process big data sets, NLP has gotten much better over the last 10 years. These advancements have helped scientists make more accurate models that can even identify different expressions, emotions and hidden intentions in conversations.
NLP technology also makes it easier for developers to create complex tools like chatbots or voice-activated assistants that interact with people using this technology.
Natural Language Processing Applications
Human language is full of intricacies that make it incredibly challenging to develop software that can precisely interpret the intended meaning of text or spoken data. Issues such as homonyms, homophones, sarcasm, idioms, metaphors, and irregular grammar and sentence structures are just a few examples.
Humans have years to master these complexities, but developers must ensure that natural language-driven applications can recognise and understand these from the beginning to be effective.
Several NLP tasks dissect human text and spoken data in ways that allow computers to comprehend what they are processing. Some of these tasks include:
Speech recognition, also known as speech-to-text, involves converting spoken data into written text reliably. This capability is needed for any application that responds to voice commands or answers spoken questions. The challenge in speech recognition comes from how people speak—often quickly, merging words, with different stresses and tones, in various accents, and sometimes using improper grammar.
Part of speech tagging, or grammatical tagging, involves identifying the role of a word in a sentence based on its usage and context. For example, it categorises ‘make’ as a verb in ‘I can make a dinner,’ and as a noun in ‘What make of car do you have?’
Word-sense disambiguation chooses the appropriate meaning of a word that has several meanings through semantic analysis to find the most sensible word in context. For instance, it helps clarify whether ‘make’ means ‘pass’ in ‘make the deadline’ and ‘compose’ in ‘make a song.’
Named entity recognition, or NER, tags words or phrases as relevant entities. For example, NER marks ‘California’ as a location or ‘Tom’ as a person’s name.
Co-reference resolution identifies whether and when two words refer to the same entity. A common task is to figure out the person or object a pronoun points to (e.g., ‘she’ = ‘Helen’), but it can also detect when a word like ‘parrot’ refers not to the animal but to a colourfully dressed person.
Sentiment analysis works to pull out subjective elements like attitudes, emotions, and tones from the text. For example, AI solutions in the insurance industry use this technique to detect fraudulent claims and analyse text data for inconsistencies, patterns, and anomalies.
Natural language generation is often seen as the reverse of speech recognition; it involves converting structured information back into human language.
Benefits of Using NLP in Artificial Intelligence
Before NLP technology was developed, people used programming languages or code to communicate with computers. Now, the process is easier. NLP allows computers to understand both written and spoken human language, which helps improve how we interact with them.
The key benefits of NLP include:
Summarising long documents
Improving the accuracy of data input
Enabling voice assistants like Alexa or Siri to respond to voice commands
Detecting emotions in customers’ comments and messages to better the user experience
Increasing efficiency by automating tasks, such as using chatbots for customer service;
Conducting complex analytics that were previously unmanageable because of data volume
Essential Skills for NLP Engineers
To start your journey in the realm of NLP, here are the important skills required to become a natural language processing engineer.
1. Programming Skills
NLP engineers need to be proficient in durable tech skills like Python, R, and SQL programming languages. They should handle large amounts of data, write clean code, and be adept at using libraries such as Pandas, Numpy, and Scikit-learn for data manipulation and analysis.
2. Machine Learning
NLP engineers need a good understanding of machine learning, including its benefits, algorithms, and methods. They should know how to tune hyperparameters to improve performance, train and evaluate models, and choose the right algorithms for different problems.
3. Data Visualisation
NLP engineers need to effectively communicate insights through data visualisation. They should create visualisations that present complex data and be proficient with visualisation libraries like Matplotlib and Seaborn. Familiarity with dashboarding tools such as Tableau or Qlikview is a valuable addition.
4. Data Engineering
Knowledge of data warehousing, ETL processes, and database design is important for NLP engineers. They should manage large data volumes and optimise data storage and retrieval.
5. Deep Learning
Deep learning is increasingly important in NLP. You should know how to use deep learning frameworks like TensorFlow and PyTorch and be able to design and train neural network models for tasks like language modelling, machine translation, and speech recognition.
6. Domain Expertise
Understanding specific domains, such as financial jargon or medical terminology, is often necessary for NLP tasks. You should collaborate with domain experts to understand the context and develop NLP solutions tailored to specific fields.
Conclusion
Summing up, natural language processing is a key technology in the artificial intelligence domain, as it allows machines to comprehend, interpret, and create human language. NLP has various uses in information technology, including powering chatbots and virtual assistants, summarising text, translating languages, and analysing sentiments. Ongoing improvements in NLP methods and models are setting the stage for smarter and more advanced AI systems that can engage with humans more naturally and significantly.
Blockchain technology, primarily known for its role in cryptocurrencies, has become a transformative force with the potential to reshape various industries. Initially focused on finance, its applications now extend well beyond numerous sectors.
According to Statista, the market value of blockchain is expected to reach nearly US$1,000 trillion by 2032. In this article, we’ll explore the extensive possibilities of blockchain and investigate its uses in diverse areas.
What Is Blockchain Technology?
A blockchain is a distributed database or ledger that a computer network’s nodes share. It is widely recognised for its key role in cryptocurrency systems to keep a secure and decentralised record of transactions. Blockchains can make data in any sector unchangeable, which means it cannot be altered.
Since blocks cannot be modified, the only necessary trust occurs when a user or program inputs data. This feature lessens the reliance on trusted third parties like auditors, who often increase costs and can make errors.
Following Bitcoin’s launch in 2009, the applications for blockchain technology have grown tremendously through the development of various cryptocurrencies, decentralised finance (DeFi) applications, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and smart contracts.
The Impact of Blockchain on Various Industries
From finance to healthcare, and from supply chain management to voting systems, blockchain technology is set to transform traditional work practices and foster significant progress worldwide. Let’s explore the uses and benefits of this revolutionary technology together.
Energy and Utilities
In the energy industry, blockchain technology serves various purposes. First of all, it helps automate and clarify grid management and supports sustainable practices with smart contracts. Additionally, it allows for decentralised peer-to-peer energy exchanges. This technology optimises energy distribution and boosts the use of renewable resources.
It also lets consumers engage directly in the energy market, enhancing efficiency and encouraging sustainability by minimising dependence on centralised intermediaries and giving consumers more control over their energy consumption.
Government Services
Governments worldwide are assessing blockchain’s ability to improve public service delivery. Blockchain technology can streamline and clarify processes in identity management, land registration, taxation, and public procurement.
By adopting blockchain, governments can also cut red tape, curb corruption, and enhance citizen services. Blockchain-based voting systems can also improve fairness and integrity in electoral processes, promising a move towards more effective and transparent governance.
Finance
Financial services often face challenges with outdated operational methods, slow payment settlements, and security risks. Blockchain networks increase transparency and efficiency in financial dealings, speeding up business processes and eliminating middlemen for quicker transactions.
Blockchain supports direct transactions between peers, reduces costs, and maintains data integrity through cryptographic checks. Its transparency also aids in better auditing and helps prevent manipulation and fraud.
Insurance
Known for cumbersome paperwork and slow claims processes, the insurance industry can benefit greatly from blockchain by automating claims verification and diminishing fraud opportunities. Smart contracts can execute claims settlements automatically under set conditions.
Blockchain also supports the secure and clear exchange of policyholder details among insurers, which can improve risk evaluation and underwriting.
Real Estate
Real estate deals involve complex procedures and significant paperwork. Blockchain can simplify these transactions by digitalising property records and automating contract execution. Smart contracts remove the need for intermediaries and secure transparent property ownership transfers.
Additionally, blockchain can facilitate fractional ownership, broadening access to real estate investments and streamlining operations to cut costs and improve efficiency.
Healthcare and Sciences
Healthcare and medical professionals are turning to blockchain development to enhance medical data management, track drugs and medical devices, and more.
Blockchain-driven healthcare solutions promise quicker, more efficient, and secure operations in medical data handling and supply tracking, potentially elevating patient care, supporting medical research, and verifying drug authenticity in global markets.
Media and Entertainment
Blockchain can monitor the entire lifecycle of content, protecting digital media and easing the distribution of authentic digital collectables.
Artists using blockchain can largely automate the business management aspects of licensing, contracts, and payments. This automation reduces costs and allows creators to sell their work directly to others without intermediaries, fostering direct interactions between creators and consumers in digital content marketplaces.
Retail Fashion
Blockchain addresses longstanding challenges in the fashion industry by improving data management, enhancing supply chain procedures, and reducing counterfeit risks. It allows brands to tokenise unique assets for easy management, trading, and verification.
Consumers can register and verify luxury items on brand websites, with each item uniquely secured and traceable through digital twin technology that links real items to their digital counterparts.
Sports
Gaming and esports are becoming increasingly popular, especially among millennials and Gen Z users. Creating blockchain-based identities offers exciting new experiences and generates significant new value by boosting fan revenue, supporting asset crowdfunding, trading digital collectables, and establishing verifiable superfan status.
Blockchain games allow for the use of tokenised digital assets that players can trade either in-game or on external markets. The technology also supports instant sports betting with provably fair results. Furthermore, blockchain facilitates the use of smart contracts for payouts, removing the need for traditional middlemen who often take large commissions.
Law
The legal sector has been slow to adopt new technologies. Enterprise blockchain technology helps overcome time-consuming manual tasks and improves accessibility, transparency, cost-effectiveness, speed, efficiency, and data reliability in legal processes.
Lawyers can use blockchain to streamline their transactions, and digitally sign and securely store legal documents. Smart contracts and automated contract management can greatly reduce the time needed to prepare, customise, and manage standard legal documents, with the savings benefiting clients.
Additionally, blockchain simplifies access to legal services, making the justice system less complicated and reducing high legal costs.
Conclusion
Summing up, blockchain technology offers significant benefits for many sectors, including improved transparency, security, efficiency, and decentralisation. As organisations and industries delve deeper into what blockchain can do, we anticipate major changes and a move towards systems that are both more efficient and more reliable in the future.
Learning software engineering opens the door to many job opportunities, but how do you know which one to pursue?
This article explores 7 software engineering disciplines, the skills involved, and the expected salary. We also look at an example of what your career path as a software engineer might look like—but remember, the journey will be different for everyone!
Types of software engineering jobs
Within software engineering are a whole array of disciplines to choose from. Finding programming jobs (and similar) is less daunting when you know what your options are and which discipline might suit you best.
1. Front-End engineer
Front-end engineers are responsible for how the front end of a site or application looks and how users can interact with it. They are responsible for planning, building, and implementing the user interface.
Front-end engineers must learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript at a minimum. If you have an eye for design and an aptitude for improving user experience, you may be drawn to a career as a front-end engineer. According to Indeed, the average salary for a front-end engineer in the UK is around £53,884.
2. Back-End engineer
If the “front end” is the side that users see and interact with, then a back-end engineer is working behind the scenes on the particulars that make the application work. The “back end” includes server and server-side technologies like database design, data integration, and APIs.
Back-end engineers use a mix of programming languages, such as Java, Golang, Elixir, Python, and C++. If you’re interested in a career as a back-end engineer, it is also worth strengthening soft skills like problem-solving and collaboration.
According to Indeed, the average salary for a back-end engineer in the UK is around £60,801.
Combine the skills and responsibilities of front-end and back-end software engineers, and what do you get? A full stack engineer.
A full-stack engineer is a high-level software engineer who is expected to work across the entire system. They are responsible for designing, testing, and implementing various software applications, taking responsibility for APIs and databases as well as UX features and user interfaces.
You’ll notice that job titles like front-end, back-end, and full-stack engineer are quite general: you could be working on anything. For example, do you know the role of artificial intelligence in transportation? As technology continually develops, the possibilities for making a difference via coding skills are endless.
According to Indeed, the average salary for a full-stack engineer in the UK is around £55,780, although the high end is around £67,026.
4. Mobile app developer
Mobile developers build applications for tablets, smartphones, and other mobile devices. These applications will typically be on either iOS or Android operating systems, and engineers sometimes sub-specialise in one of the two.
Mobile app developers are similar to full-stack developers, since both need to cover the front and back ends of an app. They therefore need to be competent with user interfaces and back-end operations and should be proficient in languages like Java and Swift. Creativity and vision are a must to develop unique apps.
According to Indeed, the average salary for a mobile developer in the UK is around £40,627.
5. Graphic engineer
Graphic engineers usually focus either on video games or computer graphics. They tend to work with 2D/3D graphics, physics, and game mechanics.
Game development is perhaps one of the most exciting disciplines within graphics, and within software engineering overall. It is an opportunity to design characters and levels, write a story, and test a game that people can access and buy from games consoles, computers, smart phones, and more.
Specific requirements will differ depending on the project, but most game developers learn C++. This is a role for an individual with a flair for creativity, a passion for storytelling, and a desire to push boundaries in what video games can be.
It is more difficult to predict salary in more creative roles, but Glassdoor places the salary range between 20k and 40k in the UK.
6. DevOps engineer
DevOps engineers tend to be responsible for feature-facing work rather than client-facing work. Their job concerns infrastructure, automation, release cycles, and sometimes application health.
DevOps is short for developmental operations: the combination of practices, tools, and cultural philosophies that help an organization deliver applications and services at high velocity. In practice, that may look like managing the programs that allow an organization to deploy their software to big stacks of clusters.
To succeed as a DevOps engineer, you need to understand the fundamentals of the software development lifecycle (SDLC), including versioning strategies, source control management systems, and CI/CD pipelines.
Additionally, DevOPs engineers may be involved in managing programs like call center scheduling software, playing a key role in automating resource allocation and workflow for the organization.
According to Indeed, the average salary for a DevOps engineer in the UK is around £62,756.
7. Security engineer
Security engineers keep a company’s data and systems safe, taking responsibility for preventing hackers and cyber attacks while protecting against or removing viruses like ReceiverHelper Mac malware.
Tasks include:
Planning network and hardware updates
Implementing and monitoring an application’s security
Testing for exploits
Collaborating with other departments to safeguard sensitive data (e.g. in an IVR contact center, communications teams and security engineers would work to keep customer data secure).
Responding to security incidents when they occur
To do this role well, security engineers should be skilled in a variety of coding languages plus penetration and vulnerability testing.
According to Indeed, the average salary for a security engineer in the UK is around £37,574.
What does a typical software engineer career path look like?
Whether you learn on the job, get a certification, or earn a Bachelor’s degree at a renowned institute like Torrens University Australia, there are numerous directions your career can take.
Let’s dive into an example software engineer career path:
Junior engineer
Most junior engineers are fresh out of university or college, and have little to no experience in professional software development.
In this role, they’ll gain experience working with a development team, learning new skills, how to contribute to projects, and how to work to project deadlines. You can expect a steep learning curve at this point in your career.
While you’re still getting a grasp of the fundamentals, it’s best to be open and receptive to feedback from senior developers.
Senior engineer
A senior engineer—typically someone with 5+ years experience—is generally regarded as the expert on the team. They have seen a plethora of different projects and technologies, and have mastered the software lifecycle.
Responsibilities include:
Training new engineers
Delivering code
Working with data structures and algorithms
Helping with larger initiatives
Evaluating and executing long-term project goals
Finding ways to improve output
Ensuring product quality in the long term
At this stage, your career path starts to branch. You may choose a career in management, or you might decide to delve deeper into the technical realm.
Tech lead
This role varies between organizations, but is generally given to a candidate with 5+ years experience.
A tech lead works more closely with scoping project roadmaps for their teams and helping manage expectations with stakeholders. They’re responsible for making sure the team they are leading can work fluidly, removing any obstacles to productivity and success.
They may also take responsibility for domain management and testing—for example, if the company operates in multiple territories and has a Qa domain.
In some organizations this is purely technical/project work alongside leading a team, while in others being a tech lead is considered management experience.
Management
In a management role (again, 5+ years experience needed) much less time is spent on technical work. Instead, you’d be focusing on developing your team members in their careers, building a team to help meet the goals of the company, and managing stakeholders on projects.
Let’s look at some specific managerial positions:
Engineering manager (6+ years)
An engineering manager’s job is to manage a team of engineers day-today, building roadmaps and strategies for projects. They focus on building, coaching, and managing a team of high-performing engineers, and ensuring they deliver on expectations.
VP of engineering (10+ years)
This is a senior-level management position. The VP of engineering must lead and grow several teams, oversee project preparation and approval, organize budgets, oversee hiring, creatively problem-solve, and communicate strategies to other leadership. An upper manager may invest in a human resource information system (HRIS) to streamline HR tasks and manage employee data.
CTO (15+ years)
Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) are in charge of every technical aspect of a company, including engineering and other departments. They must be business-minded, with excellent communication and leadership skills.
Effective leadership development is crucial for CTOs to navigate the complexities of their role, inspire innovation, foster collaboration across teams, and drive strategic initiatives that align with the company’s goals and objectives.
Responsibilities include collaborating with the executive team to identify technical initiatives, developing and leading strategy for these initiatives, researching new technology systems, and reporting on KPIs and budgets.
Tips to get started on a software engineer career path
Practise your coding skills regularly
This should be a given if you’re serious about a career in software engineering. Coding skills are foundational to pretty much any discipline. Practicing on your own hones problem-solving and analytical skills, as well as building proficiency in essential coding languages.
Pursue software engineering courses or a bachelor’s degree in computer science
Before looking for entry-level positions, most software developers undertake a relevant university course, graduate training scheme, college course, or apprenticeship. This will usually be in computer science, information technology, or software development—although maths also has transferable skills.
Network
As in any career, it is important to network and make connections in the industry. If you’re not networking, then you’re likely missing out on roles and opportunities that you won’t find online. Additionally, networking provides a sense of community and keeps you up to date in the scene.
If you look online for communities and networking events, you’ll find plenty of options. Especially for women in tech, finding like-minded individuals can be everything.
Final thoughts
Whatever your skills and interests, there’s a software development role out there for you. Starting in an entry-level position as a junior software developer, you’ll find many opportunities throughout your career to specialisespecialize and grow. The key is to stay curious, keep learning, and make all the connections you can as you move along your chosen career path.
Jessica True is the Senior Director for Marketing Strategy and Operations at Dialpad, a modern business communications platform that takes every kind of conversation to the next level—turning conversations into opportunities. Jessica is an expert in collaborating with multifunctional teams to execute and optimize marketing efforts, for both company and client campaigns. She has written for other domains such as Agility PR Solutions and Developer Nation. Here is her LinkedIn.
