Applications developer
Applications developers translate software requirements into workable programming code and maintain and develop programs for use in business. Most will specialise in a specific development field, such as computer games or e-commerce, and will have in-depth knowledge of at least one computer language.
Job titles and specific duties may vary between organisations but the role usually involves writing specifications and designing, building, testing, implementing and sometimes supporting applications using programming languages and development tools.
Applications developers work in a wide range of business sectors, including finance and the public sector. They often work as part of a team with other IT professionals, such as software engineers and systems analysts, and write programs according to their specifications. They may also work on generic products or for individual clients providing bespoke solutions.
The principal function of an applications developer is to make computers perform specific tasks, based on the client's specifications.
Activities typically include:
Although this area of work is open to all graduates, the following degree/HND/foundation degree subjects may increase your chances:
Although many employers, particularly software houses, will only recruit applicants with relevant qualifications (and evidence of technical skills), there are opportunities for those without relevant degrees or diplomas.
An IT conversion course may be helpful for those without a computing degree. Search courses and research for details of courses.
Relevant work experience is desirable. Familiarity with computers and standard software is essential.
Potential candidates will need to show evidence of the following:
There is a high demand for the most talented and best qualified candidates. Equally, there is strong competition for highly sought-after posts. Aptitude tests, in-tray exercises, presentations and/or group exercises frequently form part of the selection process. Increasingly, applicants are being asked to submit a demo (particularly for entry into the games industry). Applications can be made by responding to specific advertisements or by applying speculatively to relevant employers.
For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.
Since IT changes so quickly, it is important to keep up to date with recent developments in the industry. Applications developers must continually update their knowledge and skills by taking courses sponsored by their employer or through software vendors.
Some larger employers offer structured graduate programmes and you will gain experience in a number of team-related projects in different work areas. Most companies offer ongoing training, either in-house or via external courses, although if you are self-employed or employed by a smaller employer you may need to consider the cost and time implications of taking responsibility for your own training.
Increasingly, employers are looking for vendor certification as a way of demonstrating competence. Product vendors and software firms offer certification as a means of recognising that individuals have the relevant skills and knowledge to work with particular languages, applications and operating systems. Relevant training and certification routes for applications developers include:
Other professional qualifications are available through BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT) .
BCS can also help by providing information and guidance to members on recognising and planning learning needs and developing areas of expertise.
The Institution of Analysts and Programmers (IAP) also offers up-to-date information on training and relevant industry-recognised qualifications.
e-skills UK - The Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology has developed the e-skills Professional Programme, which is modular and covers areas such technical, business, project management and communication skills. The aim of the programme is to provide new graduate IT professionals with high quality training during the early years of their careers, regardless of their background.
The SFIA Foundation (Skills Framework for the Information Age) was formed in order to allow a common reference point for the identification of the skills needed to develop the use of ICT. Employers and IT professionals can use this framework as a skills development tool and to identify career development opportunities.
Training in areas not directly related to your technical work, for example in business or finance, may boost your prospects when considering career development.
Many graduates initially find themselves undertaking programming work, which is one of the best starting points for a career in IT. As there is usually a need for staff to be multi-skilled, you are also likely to gain experience in systems analysis or systems design. In large organisations, applications developers may be promoted to a senior applications developer and be given supervisory responsibilities. With more business experience, developers may move into systems analysis or be promoted to an applications manager position.
Applications developers often develop their careers by specialising in either management or contracting. Some graduates develop their expertise within a particular type of application, such as databases, or by having an in-depth knowledge of one language, such as Java or C++. Although this can be quite a limiting career option, it will suit those wishing to become one of a small number of experts in a specific field.
Others move into project management, replacing their detailed perspective with an overview, and take on responsibility for supervising teams of programmers and for the overall design and specification of a project.
A third option is to become self-employed through contracting. Contractors typically act as system developers, discussing needs with users, analysing requirements and writing and implementing the resulting programs.
Both BCS (The Chartered Institute for IT) and the Institution of Analysts and Programmers (IAP) provide up-to-date information on career moves and areas of development.
e-skills UK - The Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology undertakes an annual survey on trends in demand for specific programming skills, which is summarised on their website. IT Jobs Watch also provides information on careers and skills in demand.
Opportunities exist for new graduates in all employment sectors, including:
Many financial institutions, management consultancies and major retailers offer specific IT graduate training programmes.
IT companies themselves have large IT departments to manage their own systems and also run IT systems for other companies on a consultancy basis. Employers can be large multinational corporations, medium-sized companies or small software consultancies employing only a few staff.
There are also opportunities in the public sector and in education.
The IT industry continues to grow as the use of computers and the internet becomes increasingly commonplace in the UK. e-skills UK - The Sector Skills Council for Business and Information Technology publishes regular, detailed industry reports, including research into current skills shortages and employment trends.
Many organisations advertise their vacancies on their own websites and welcome speculative applications. Recruitment agencies commonly handle vacancies - search the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) for agencies by type of vacancy and location.
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