Tools have always opened
new horizons for human civilization-
from the sharpened stones
of hunter-gatherers,
to today's computers and software.
Software developers are the creative minds
designing tools for the new millennium,
whether they design new apps like
web browsers, databases, or games-
or create the operating system that runs
a phone, computer, or an entire network.
These IT professionals lead the process
for the entire team it takes to
create new software.
Developers start by learning
what users' needs are,
then they design and test software
to meet those needs.
They design based on functionality-
or what the software needs to do-
how it will be used,
and security needs.
Programmers then rely on the models
and diagrams made by software developers
to guide their coding of designs.
If testing reveals that a software design
is too difficult to use,
the developers redesign it until it works.
Many software developers work for
software publishers and computer system
design companies, manufacturing firms,
and in finance and insurance businesses.
Most work full time,
and long hours are common.
Software developers usually have
a bachelor's degree in computer science,
software engineering, math, or a related field.
Software developers need a background in
programming, and should plan to continue
learning new developments in
computer languages and tools...
throughout their careers.