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Table of Contents

Introduction

Software developers and computer programmers both have similar tasks to do. In fact, most people will say that they are the same type of person.

How Does A Software Developer Differ From A Computer Programmer?

In reality, however, the job description for a software developer is quite different than that of a computer programmer. Software developers design software systems that help in business. They are responsible for coming up with solutions that can help business owners meet their goals. The types of things they can create include financial applications, word processors, online trading options, educational software, e-commerce systems, customer relationship management systems, and more.

The primary difference between how software developers and computer programmers design programs is that the latter are usually given more freedom to create their programs. This is because they have to ensure that the systems created are efficient enough to meet business requirements. Often times, computer programmers are told to create programs that will run on certain operating systems. With the need to adhere to specific regulations, software developers must be capable of designing and implementing programs that work with any operating system.

Another important difference between how software developers and computer programmers work is that the latter do not write the software themselves. Instead, they employ other individuals or teams to accomplish this task for them. Computer programmers may oversee the creation of the software and give their inputs once the project has been finalized. On the other hand, software developers must be involved from the beginning until the software is complete.

Training is required for software developers as well. A computer programmer who wants to pursue a career as one must undergo formal training. These courses can take anywhere from six months to two years. Many software developers begin their careers by working as programmers on small projects for free.

One area of distinction between a programmer and a software engineer is the level of programming experience. Programmers have more knowledge in the field of computer science than most software developers. They can also be found in colleges and universities. Typically, graduates of programming schools go on to become software engineers. As you can see, both of these professionals have the knowledge to specialize in different types of software.

When it comes to the style of learning a programmer needs, the two are very similar. Most software developers start out as computer science majors. Some choose to focus on a specific type of software development while others decide to explore all of the possibilities. Graduates of computer science programs may find employment in research and technology departments, information technology departments, and manufacturing laboratories. Alternatively, many software developers begin working as interns or assistants to computer scientists or other professionals in the field.

Another way to think of the difference between a programmer and a software developer is the amount of programming time required for each type of job. Software developers usually write the majority of the code necessary for the software in question. However, programmers will add code if the need arises. This difference may be evident in the amount of programming hours required to develop one program versus another.

The final difference between a software developer and a computer programmer is the use of different languages and codes. While many people think of a computer program as being written in an easy to understand programming language like C, there are many different languages that are used to create software. Many programmers prefer to work with one particular language but some programmers like to code in a variety of different languages to meet all of their clients needs.

Summary

Software developers design software systems that help in business. They are responsible for coming up with solutions that can help business owners meet their goals.

Next Steps

If you're interested in learning more about the basics of Java, coding, and software development, check out our Coding Essentials Guidebook for Developers, where we cover the essential languages, concepts, and tools that you'll need to become a professional developer.

Thanks and happy coding! We hope you enjoyed this article. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to jacob@initialcommit.io.

Final Notes