Software developer skills are very important. Developers are responsible for creating applications that end-users enjoy. Therefore, every software developer must have the right skills to be productive.
Programming Languages
Excellent command in at least one programming language is a must. A good software developer must have domain knowledge and expertise in programming languages. Choosing the programming language to use depend on the developer’s or programmer’s interest. In other words, select the language you are comfortable with, in solving problems and addressing software issues.
Integrated Development Environment (IDEs)
Integrated Development Environments help developers accomplish tasks quickly. These tasks may include writing code, modification, compilation, and, running and debugging the code. The development environment differs from each developer. Every programmer has different choices when it comes to the development environment, depending on the purpose and programming language they are working on. The use of IDEs can help accomplish tasks faster. Therefore, every programmer must know how to use IDEs correctly.
Testing Basics
The software must pass several test cases before it can qualify for release in the market. Understanding the basics of software testing is essential for every developer. As we all know, testing is the process of finding bugs and checking the functionality and performance of a software product. Software testing uses a lot of methods. However, a developer must only learn about the three vital testing methods. These are Unit Testing, Integration Testing, and, System Testing.
Operating System (OS)
A dedicated software developer knows the fundamentals and mechanics of the OS. When a developer works on a project, they deal with so many issues related to an operating system. For instance, memory usage, communicating with another machine, very slow running of a program, tools conflicting issues, blocking issues, etc. When a developer writes code on one device, and that does not work on another machine, then it can create a severe problem during the production level. Therefore, it is good to have good knowledge of the process and mechanics of the OS you will be working with.
Data Structures and Algorithms
Knowledge in data structures and algorithms is a vital skill that a developer must have. It is needed when checking for organizing data. In addition to this, the skill is also used for solving real-life problems. Data structures and algorithms are considered as the heart of programming. Therefore, every developer or programmer must exert effort to have this skill. Without proper knowledge about data structures and algorithms, coding will eat up too much of a developer’s time and, likewise, take up too much space. This skill will teach a developer the importance of organizing data and solving problems faster with less time and space.
Other Skills a Developer Must Have
- Source Control
- Text Editors
- Databases
- Networking Basics
- Cross-Platform Software
- Encryption and Cryptography
- SDLC (Software development life cycle)
- Microsoft Excel
In Conclusion
Software developers work hand-in-hand with software testers. They make sure that the software that end-users enjoy are of the best quality. They make sure that every aspect of the software like functionality, performance, and a lot more are working properly, and, as expected. Software developers must be flexible in the sense that they must have the skills and knowledge that go beyond their field of work. Hence, making them more effective, efficient, and productive.