{"id":8730,"date":"2012-11-07T17:01:08","date_gmt":"2012-11-07T17:01:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/developer\/"},"modified":"2024-08-13T08:39:07","modified_gmt":"2024-08-13T08:39:07","slug":"developer","status":"publish","type":"definition","link":"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/17095\/developer","title":{"rendered":"Developer"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><span id=\"who_is_a_developer\">Who is a Developer?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A developer is an individual who builds and creates <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4356\/software\">software<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4224\/application-software\">applications<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Generally, developers are well versed in at least one <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24815\/programming-language\">programming language<\/a> and proficient in the art of structuring and developing software <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/589\/code\">code<\/a> or a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/25084\/software-program\">program<\/a>. Depending on the job role and type of software developed, there are numerous types of developers, such as software developers, application developers, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/33243\/mobile-developer\">mobile developers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/17353\/web-developer\">web developers<\/a>, etc.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-300x134.jpg\" alt=\"Who is a Developer?\" width=\"1200\" height=\"537\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-295047\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-300x134.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-1024x459.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-768x344.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-1536x688.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-1200x537.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-1980x887.jpg 1980w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"su-note\"  style=\"border-color:#e5e54c;border-radius:\u201c3\u201dpx;-moz-border-radius:\u201c3\u201dpx;-webkit-border-radius:\u201c3\u201dpx;\"><div class=\"su-note-inner su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"background-color:#FFFF66;border-color:#ffffff;color:#333333;border-radius:\u201c3\u201dpx;-moz-border-radius:\u201c3\u201dpx;-webkit-border-radius:\u201c3\u201dpx;\">\n<h2><span id=\"key_takeaways\">Key Takeaways<\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>A developer designs, codes, tests, and maintains software.<\/li>\n<li>Developers are highly sought after, with job growth expected to increase by 25% from 2021 to 2031.<\/li>\n<li>The average salary for developers in the U.S. ranges from $84,000 to $139,000 in 2024.<\/li>\n<li>Developers are needed in many sectors, including banking, healthcare, entertainment, and e-commerce.<\/li>\n<li>Key skills include proficiency in programming languages, problem-solving, version control, database management, and communication.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div>\n    <section class=\"toc-sticky w-100 bg-white \">\n        <div class=\"toc-sticky__container container\">\n            <div class=\"toc-sticky__open d-flex align-items-end\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\"\n                 aria-controls=\"multiCollapse1\"\n                 data-bs-target=\"#multiCollapse1\">\n                <button\n                        class=\"btn btn-primary collapse-action-btn p-1 rounded-circle\"\n                        type=\"button\"\n                >\n                    <i class=\"icon-chevron-up\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <span id=\"toc-current-title\" class=\"d-flex align-items-center\">\n                    Table of Contents\n                <\/span>\n                <span class=\"toc-main-title-permanent\">Table of Contents<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div\n                    class=\"collapse my-3\"\n                    id=\"multiCollapse1\"\n            >\n                <ol class=\"StepProgress\">\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item current\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"who_is_a_developer\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"who_is_a_developer\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Who is a Developer?<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"key_takeaways\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_takeaways\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Key Takeaways<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"what_does_a_developer_do\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"what_does_a_developer_do\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">What Does a Developer Do?<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"why_become_a_developer\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"why_become_a_developer\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Why Become a Developer?<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"key_skills_for_developers\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_skills_for_developers\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Key Skills for Developers<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"software_developer_vs_software_engineer\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"software_developer_vs_software_engineer\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Software Developer vs. Software Engineer<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"8_types_of_developers\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"8_types_of_developers\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">8 Types of Developers<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"developer_vs_programmer_engineer\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"developer_vs_programmer_engineer\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">Developer vs. Programmer &amp; Engineer<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"the_bottom_line\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"the_bottom_line\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">The Bottom Line<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"faqs\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"faqs\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">FAQs<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                                                        <li class=\"StepProgress-item\">\n                                                <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                            <a data-id=\"references\"\n                               onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"references\")\n                               class=\"StepProgress-item__link\" data-level=\"2\">References<\/a>\n                                                    <\/div>\n                                                <\/li>\n                                    <\/ol>\n                <div class=\"toc-sticky__container__disperse\"><\/div>\n                <div class=\"toc-sticky__btn-top justify-content-center\">\n                    <button class=\"btn btn-link d-flex align-items-center\" onclick={btnTop()}><p>Show Full Guide<\/p><img decoding=\"async\"\n                                src=\"\/wp-content\/plugins\/table-of-contents\/assets\/images\/arrow-up-circle.svg\"\n                                alt=\"arrow-up-circle\">\n                    <\/button>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/section>\n    <div class=\"toc-sticky-list\">\n        <div class=\"toc-sticky__container container\">\n            <div class=\"toc-sticky__open d-flex align-items-end\" data-bs-toggle=\"collapse\" aria-controls=\"multiCollapse2\" data-bs-target=\"#multiCollapse2\">\n                <button class=\"btn btn-primary collapse-action-btn p-1 rounded-circle\"\n                        type=\"button\">\n                    <i class=\"icon-chevron-up up\"><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <span id=\"toc-current-title\" class=\"d-flex align-items-center\">\n                    Table of Contents\n                <\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div  class=\"collapse my-3\" id=\"multiCollapse2\">\n                <ol class=\"StepProgress\">\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t                                                     <li class=\"StepProgress-item current \">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"who_is_a_developer\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"who_is_a_developer\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Who is a Developer?<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t                                                     <li class=\"StepProgress-item \">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"key_takeaways\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_takeaways\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Key Takeaways<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t                                                     <li class=\"StepProgress-item \">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"what_does_a_developer_do\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"what_does_a_developer_do\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">What Does a Developer Do?<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t <span class=\"show_moretoc\">Show Full Guide<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"why_become_a_developer\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"why_become_a_developer\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Why Become a Developer?<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"key_skills_for_developers\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"key_skills_for_developers\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Key Skills for Developers<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"software_developer_vs_software_engineer\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"software_developer_vs_software_engineer\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Software Developer vs. Software Engineer<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"8_types_of_developers\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"8_types_of_developers\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">8 Types of Developers<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"developer_vs_programmer_engineer\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"developer_vs_programmer_engineer\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">Developer vs. Programmer &amp; Engineer<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"the_bottom_line\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"the_bottom_line\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">The Bottom Line<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"faqs\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"faqs\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">FAQs<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                    \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t \t\t\t\t\t\t  \t\t\t\t\t                                                      <li class=\"StepProgress-item ms_hidetoc\">\n                                                    <div class=\"StepProgress-item__group\">\n                                <a data-id=\"references\"\n                                   onclick=handleScrollToTitle(\"references\")\n                                   class=\"StepProgress-item__link\"\n                                   data-level=\"2\">References<\/a>\n                                                            <\/div>\n                                                    <\/li>\n                                    <\/ol>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"toc-sticky__container__disperse\"><\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    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When the user clicks on the button, scroll to the top of the document\n    function btnTop() {\n        const pageLegend = document.querySelector('#multiCollapse1');\n        document.querySelector('html').classList.remove('overflow-hidden');\n        pageLegend.classList.remove('overflow-auto');\n        pageLegend.style.height = 'auto';\n        window.scrollTo({\n            top: 0,\n            behavior: 'smooth'\n        });\n    }\n\n    const handleScrollToTitle = (id) => {\n        const el = document.getElementById(id);\n        const headerHeightDifference = window.innerWidth < 992 ? -30 : -15;\n        window.scrollTo({\n            top: el.offsetTop - 60 - headerHeightDifference - 10,\n        });\n    }\n<\/script>\n\n<h2><span id=\"what_does_a_developer_do\">What Does a Developer Do?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A developer has four main tasks:<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-accordion su-u-trim\">\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Designing<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Conceptualizing and planning a software solution before it is actually created. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Coding<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\">Using a programming language to write the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/547\/source-code\">source code<\/a> for the software solution.<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Testing<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Locating and removing coding mistakes in the software&#8217;s source code. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Maintaining<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Responsible for any changes and updates needed to the software.\u00a0 <\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"why_become_a_developer\">Why Become a Developer?<\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"su-tabs su-tabs-style-default su-tabs-mobile-stack\" data-active=\"1\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\"><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><strong>In-demand<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><strong>High earning potential<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><strong>Skill development<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><strong>Freelance and remote work<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><strong>Varied opportunities<\/strong><\/span><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"&lt;strong&gt;In-demand&lt;\/strong&gt;\">\n<p>A software developer is one of the most in-demand tech jobs in 2024. In fact, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/computer-and-information-technology\/software-developers.htm#tab-6\" target=\"_blank\">employment for software developers is expected to grow by 25% from 2021 to 2031<\/a>.<br \/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"&lt;strong&gt;High earning potential&lt;\/strong&gt;\">\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/top-in-demand-tech-jobs\">average salary range for the role ($84,000 \u2013 $139,000 in the U.S. in 2024)<\/a> makes it an attractive choice for a future career in software.<br \/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"&lt;strong&gt;Skill development&lt;\/strong&gt;\">\n<p>Thanks to the wealth of knowledge on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2419\/internet\">Internet<\/a> and via <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/top-coding-courses\">courses<\/a>, software development is relatively easy to pick up.<br \/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"&lt;strong&gt;Freelance and remote work&lt;\/strong&gt;\">\n<p>A software developer generally gets to set their own hours, allowing a healthier work-life balance.<br \/>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"&lt;strong&gt;Varied opportunities&lt;\/strong&gt;\">\n<p>Software developers are needed in nearly every sector worldwide, from banking to healthcare, entertainment, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/ecommerce\">e-commerce<\/a>, and more. This gives you the freedom to choose whatever best suits you.<br \/>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"key_skills_for_developers\">Key Skills for Developers<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Key skills for developers include:<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-accordion su-u-trim\">\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Proficiency in programming languages<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Generally, languages such as Python, Java, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3929\/javascript-js\">JavaScript<\/a>, and C++. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Problem-solving<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> A developer must be able to analyze problems and find solutions. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Familiarity with development tools<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Tools such as GitHub for version control and Visual Studio for development. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Version control<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Use tools like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/28960\/git\">Git<\/a> for managing code changes. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Database management<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> It&#8217;s important to understand <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/1245\/structured-query-language-sql\">SQL<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/1185\/database-db\">databases<\/a> like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3498\/mysql\">MySQL<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3499\/postgresql\">PostgreSQL<\/a>. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Debugging<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Must be able to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/16373\/debugging\">identify and fix code issues<\/a>. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Collaborating in agile environments<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Working with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/agile-project-management\">Agile practices and methodologies<\/a>. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Familiarity with APIs and web services<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Must be able to integrate different systems. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Communication skills<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Crucial in any role. <\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"su-spoiler su-spoiler-style-fancy su-spoiler-icon-plus su-spoiler-closed\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-spoiler-title\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\"><span class=\"su-spoiler-icon\"><\/span>Continuous learning<\/div><div class=\"su-spoiler-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\"> Must be able to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies. <\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"software_developer_vs_software_engineer\">Software Developer vs. Software Engineer<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>These two terms are generally used interchangeably, but there are distinct differences across the two roles.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s a breakdown of the similarities and distinctions.<\/p>\n<p>A<strong> software developer:<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"su-list\" style=\"margin-left:0px\">\n<ul>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Focuses on creating software applications by writing and maintaining code<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> The developer role focuses on handling design, coding, testing, and maintenance tasks<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Developers work closely with clients to understand their needs, often collaborating with designers and testers<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> They use tools like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/github\">GitHub<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/15740\/visual-studio-net\">Visual Studio<\/a>, and various <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/26860\/integrated-development-environment-ide\">IDEs<\/a> and are skilled in languages such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3533\/python\">Python<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3927\/java\">Java<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/26184\/c-plus-plus-programming-language\">C++<\/a><\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Their problem-solving approach is creative and iterative, aiming to meet user needs<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Developers usually have a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/5-of-the-best-online-undergraduate-computer-science-degree-programs\/2\/34141\">bachelor&#8217;s degree in computer science<\/a> or a related field and may attend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/best-coding-bootcamps\">coding bootcamps<\/a><\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Career paths can lead to senior roles or specializations in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24794\/front-and-back-ends\">front-end or back-end development<\/a>, eventually becoming <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/31441\/software-architect\">software architects<\/a> or lead developers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>A<strong> software engineer:<\/strong><br \/>\n<div class=\"su-list\" style=\"margin-left:0px\">\n<ul>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Designs and manages complex systems, applying engineering principles<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> They ensure all parts of a system work together smoothly. Engineers solve problems systematically and analytically, focusing on robust and scalable systems<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> They work in larger, cross-functional teams with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/677\/project-manager-pm\">project managers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/28370\/product-manager\">product managers,<\/a> and other engineers, often in leadership roles<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Engineers use tools like MATLAB, Simulink, and Jenkins in addition to developer tools<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> They typically have a bachelor&#8217;s or master&#8217;s degree in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/592\/computer-science\">computer science<\/a> or a related field, emphasizing engineering principles<\/li>\n<li><i class=\"sui sui-check-circle\" style=\"color:#3CB371\"><\/i> Career progression includes advancing to senior engineer, technical lead, or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/28874\/chief-technology-officer-cto\">Chief Technology Officer<\/a> (CTO) roles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span id=\"8_types_of_developers\">8 Types of Developers<\/span><\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Front-end developer: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/29569\/front-end-developer\">Codes and creates the visual front-end elements<\/a> of a software, application, or website. Generally must convert website design files into raw <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/1892\/hypertext-markup-language-html\">HTML<\/a>, JavaScript (JS), and\/or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/26268\/cascading-style-sheet-css\">CSS code<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Back-end developer:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/29568\/back-end-developer\">Creates the logical back-end and core computational logic<\/a> of a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5411\/website\">website<\/a>, software, or information system. Generally has expert programming skills in C++, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/26272\/c-sharp\">C#<\/a>, Java and other high-level programming languages.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Full-stack developer: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/33989\/full-stack-developer\">Combines front-end and back-end skills<\/a> to handle all parts of web development, from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4685\/user-interface-ui\">user interface<\/a> (UI) to server logic.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mobile developer:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/33243\/mobile-developer\">Focused on developing software or systems for mobile devices<\/a>. Uses languages such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/32592\/swift-programming-language\">Swift<\/a> for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/25206\/ios\">iOS<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/34021\/kotlin\">Kotlin<\/a> for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5415\/android\">Android<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>DevOps developer:<\/strong> Look for ways in which automation can <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/top-devops-certifications\">make the software development lifecycle and operations management more efficient<\/a>. Use tools like Jenkins and Docker.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Game developer: <\/strong>Designs and builds video games using engines like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/28545\/unity\">Unity<\/a> and Unreal Engine, and languages such as C++ and C#.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Security developer: <\/strong>Focuses on identifying and fixing security issues, ensuring that applications and systems are secure.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Web developer: <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/17353\/web-developer\">Specializes<\/a> in the development of applications relating to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/5217\/world-wide-web-www\">World Wide Web<\/a> (WWW) or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/23971\/distributed-application\">distributed network applications.<\/a> Typically run protocols like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/2336\/hypertext-transfer-protocol-http\">HTTP<\/a> from a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/4928\/web-server\">web server<\/a> to a client browser using associated programming languages like HTML\/CSS, C#, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/3301\/ruby\">Ruby<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/definition\/24406\/php-hypertext-preprocessor-php\">PHP<\/a>. They often work closely with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/hosting\/best-website-hosting\">web hosting services<\/a> to ensure that the applications they create are effectively deployed and maintained on the internet.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2><span id=\"developer_vs_programmer_engineer\">Developer vs. Programmer &amp; Engineer<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-vs.-Programmer-_-Engineer-209x300.jpg\" alt=\"Developer vs. Programmer &amp; Engineer\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1720\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-295048\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-vs.-Programmer-_-Engineer-209x300.jpg 209w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-vs.-Programmer-_-Engineer-715x1024.jpg 715w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-vs.-Programmer-_-Engineer-768x1101.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-vs.-Programmer-_-Engineer-1072x1536.jpg 1072w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-vs.-Programmer-_-Engineer-1200x1720.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.techopedia.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/11\/Developer-vs.-Programmer-_-Engineer.jpg 1390w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"the_bottom_line\">The Bottom Line<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A developer definition is someone who builds and creates software applications by writing and maintaining code. They handle design, coding, testing, and maintenance tasks. They work closely with clients and often collaborate with designers and testers.<\/p>\n<p>Developers use tools like GitHub, Visual Studio, and various IDEs, and are skilled in languages such as Python, Java, and C++. The career path for developers can lead to senior roles or specializations, eventually becoming software architects or lead developers.<\/p>\n<p>Understanding the developer definition helps explain the skills and roles needed in the tech industry.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"faqs\">FAQs<\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"man_faq_sec\" itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\"><\/time><section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">Who is a developer in simple terms?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">The developer meaning refers to a person who builds and creates software and applications.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What does a developer do?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">A developer&#8217;s job is to design, code, test, and maintain software.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">What is the role of a developer?\u00a0<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">A developer creates software applications by writing and maintaining code. They handle design, coding, testing, and maintenance tasks. Developers work closely with clients to understand their needs and often collaborate with designers and testers to create user-friendly software solutions.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">Is a developer an engineer?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">No, a developer and an engineer are distinct roles. An engineer has a big-picture view of all operations related to software, while a developer focuses solely on the software.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<section class=\"ms_faq ms_card \" ><div itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\"><div class=\"accordionButton\"><h3 itemprop=\"name\">Can a non-engineer become a developer?<\/h3> <\/div>\n<div class=\"accordionContent\" itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\" style=\"display:none;\"><p itemprop=\"text\">Yes, a non-engineer can become a developer. Many developers come from different educational backgrounds and may attend coding boot camps or take online courses to learn the necessary skills. What matters most is proficiency in programming languages, problem-solving skills, and familiarity with development tools.<\/p>\r\n                <\/div><\/div><\/section>\n<div class=\"reference-content\">\n<div class=\"reference-heading reference-content-collapsible-heading\">\n<h2><span id=\"references\">References<\/span><\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"reference-content-body\">\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bls.gov\/ooh\/computer-and-information-technology\/software-developers.htm#tab-6\" target=\"_blank\"> Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/a> (Bls)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Who is a Developer? A developer is an individual who builds and creates software and applications. Generally, developers are well versed in at least one programming language and proficient in the art of structuring and developing software code or a program. Depending on the job role and type of software developed, there are numerous types [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":286589,"featured_media":295046,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_lmt_disableupdate":"","_lmt_disable":"","om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"definitioncat":[277],"class_list":["post-8730","definition","type-definition","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","definitioncat-career-paths"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.2 (Yoast SEO v24.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Who is a Developer? Definition, Skills &amp; Types - Techopedia<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The developer is an individual who creates software and applications. Learn the full developer\u2019s meaning with Techopedia.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"noindex, follow\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Developer\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The developer is an individual who creates software and applications. 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