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What a software developer ??
What a software developer means
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15 answers
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Erke, a Software Developer or Computer Software Developer, is responsible for using their knowledge of programming languages to design software programs. Their duties include meeting with clients to determine their software needs, coding and testing software to ensure functionality and updating software programs to refine components like cybersecurity measures and data storage capacities.
HERE'S A MORE DETAILED BREAKDOWN
• DESIGNING & DEVELOPING SOFTWARE
This involves creating the architecture and specifications for new software applications, as well as building the software itself based on defined requirements.
• WRITING & TESTING CODE
This includes writing code in various programming languages and conducting thorough testing to ensure the software functions correctly and meets requirements.
DEBUGGING APPLICATIONS
Identifying and resolving defects in the software to improve its performance and reliability is a crucial responsibility.
• COLLABORATING WITH STAKEHOLDERS
Working with project managers, designers, and other teams to align on project goals and ensure smooth development is essential.
• MAINTAINING & UPDATING SOFTWARE
Software developers also need to maintain and upgrade existing applications, adding new features and improving existing functionalities.
ESSENTIAL SOFTWARE DEVELOPER SKILLS
Some of the top software developer skills you'll need to be proficient in: programming languages, problem-solving, understanding of data structures and algorithms, strong communication skills, and continuous learning. These skills are crucial for creating efficient, reliable, and innovative software solutions.
HERE'S A MORE DETAILED BREAKDOWN
• PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
Being proficient in one or more programming languages is fundamental. This includes not just knowing the syntax, but also understanding how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. Popular languages include Python, Java, JavaScript, C++, and C#.
• PROBLEM-SOLVING
Software development often involves breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts and then devising effective solutions. This requires strong analytical and logical thinking skills.
• DATA STRUCTURES & ALGORITHMS
Understanding data structures (like arrays, linked lists, trees, etc.) and algorithms (methods for solving problems) is crucial for efficient code design and performance optimization. These are foundational concepts for any software developer.
• CLOUD COMPUTING
Cloud computing platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud are increasingly popular for deploying and managing software. Developers need to be familiar with cloud concepts and how to leverage them for their projects.
• COMMUNICATION & COLLABORATION
Software development is rarely a solitary activity. Strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with other developers, designers, product managers, and stakeholders. This includes the ability to clearly explain technical concepts, provide feedback, and work effectively in a team environment.
Hope this was helpful Erke
HERE'S A MORE DETAILED BREAKDOWN
• DESIGNING & DEVELOPING SOFTWARE
This involves creating the architecture and specifications for new software applications, as well as building the software itself based on defined requirements.
• WRITING & TESTING CODE
This includes writing code in various programming languages and conducting thorough testing to ensure the software functions correctly and meets requirements.
DEBUGGING APPLICATIONS
Identifying and resolving defects in the software to improve its performance and reliability is a crucial responsibility.
• COLLABORATING WITH STAKEHOLDERS
Working with project managers, designers, and other teams to align on project goals and ensure smooth development is essential.
• MAINTAINING & UPDATING SOFTWARE
Software developers also need to maintain and upgrade existing applications, adding new features and improving existing functionalities.
ESSENTIAL SOFTWARE DEVELOPER SKILLS
Some of the top software developer skills you'll need to be proficient in: programming languages, problem-solving, understanding of data structures and algorithms, strong communication skills, and continuous learning. These skills are crucial for creating efficient, reliable, and innovative software solutions.
HERE'S A MORE DETAILED BREAKDOWN
• PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES
Being proficient in one or more programming languages is fundamental. This includes not just knowing the syntax, but also understanding how to write clean, efficient, and maintainable code. Popular languages include Python, Java, JavaScript, C++, and C#.
• PROBLEM-SOLVING
Software development often involves breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts and then devising effective solutions. This requires strong analytical and logical thinking skills.
• DATA STRUCTURES & ALGORITHMS
Understanding data structures (like arrays, linked lists, trees, etc.) and algorithms (methods for solving problems) is crucial for efficient code design and performance optimization. These are foundational concepts for any software developer.
• CLOUD COMPUTING
Cloud computing platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud are increasingly popular for deploying and managing software. Developers need to be familiar with cloud concepts and how to leverage them for their projects.
• COMMUNICATION & COLLABORATION
Software development is rarely a solitary activity. Strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with other developers, designers, product managers, and stakeholders. This includes the ability to clearly explain technical concepts, provide feedback, and work effectively in a team environment.
Hope this was helpful Erke
Updated
L’s Answer
Erke,
A software developer is someone who makes computer programs. Such as apps, websites, or the systems that run machines by writing code. They figure out what the program needs to do, plan how it will work, build it, test it to make sure it works properly, fix problems, and keep it updated over time. They often work in teams with designers, project managers, and other developers. To do the job well, they need to know programming languages (like Python or Java), be good at solving problems, understand how to organize and process data, and communicate clearly with others. Some developers focus on what users see (frontend), some on the behind‑the‑scenes parts (backend), some do both (full‑stack), and others specialize in areas like mobile apps, cloud systems, or software for devices.
A software developer is someone who makes computer programs. Such as apps, websites, or the systems that run machines by writing code. They figure out what the program needs to do, plan how it will work, build it, test it to make sure it works properly, fix problems, and keep it updated over time. They often work in teams with designers, project managers, and other developers. To do the job well, they need to know programming languages (like Python or Java), be good at solving problems, understand how to organize and process data, and communicate clearly with others. Some developers focus on what users see (frontend), some on the behind‑the‑scenes parts (backend), some do both (full‑stack), and others specialize in areas like mobile apps, cloud systems, or software for devices.
Updated
Chris’s Answer
A Software Developer or Software Engineer helps solve problems and makes things faster by creating software to meet different needs.
Being a Software Engineer means always learning new things. Technology changes quickly, so it's good to know more than just one language or tool.
Working well with others is important. Software Engineers should enjoy teaming up and sharing ideas to reach goals together.
Staying humble is key. Be open to feedback on your work, whether it's about your coding style or design details. Having a strong mindset will help you succeed in this field.
Patience is also essential. Sometimes, fixing a bug can take a lot of time, as you might need to keep testing and adjusting your work.
There's much more to learn, and you'll understand more with experience.
Keep coding and enjoy the journey!
Being a Software Engineer means always learning new things. Technology changes quickly, so it's good to know more than just one language or tool.
Working well with others is important. Software Engineers should enjoy teaming up and sharing ideas to reach goals together.
Staying humble is key. Be open to feedback on your work, whether it's about your coding style or design details. Having a strong mindset will help you succeed in this field.
Patience is also essential. Sometimes, fixing a bug can take a lot of time, as you might need to keep testing and adjusting your work.
There's much more to learn, and you'll understand more with experience.
Keep coding and enjoy the journey!
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Erke!
Putting commands together to make the computer or digital phone obey a routine outlined in the software code. If the computer cannot perform a task, then it will throw an exception! I have been developing software code since 1972. I taught myself from books before the Internet.
SEE https://medium.com/@yashbatra11111/the-47-line-code-that-made-one-developer-2-million-from-ai-7269383d65db
When the Internet arrived in Australia in 1996, I referred to it for Visual Basic code:-
15 Websites to Learn to Code For Free in 2025
1. Codecademy
2. freeCodeCamp
3. Coursera
4. Udemy
5. Codewars
6. The Odin Project
7. Khan Academy
8. MIT OpenCourseWare
9. edX
10. W3Schools
11. Skillcrush
12. Code.org
13. Microsoft Learn
14. Sololearn
15.BitDegree
Software Development is defined as the process of designing, creating, testing, and maintaining computer programs and applications. Software development plays an important role in our daily lives. It empowers computers, smartphone apps, and supports businesses worldwide. The day-to-day work of software development means more than just sitting behind a keyboard. They build, test and maintain software.
Software developers find creative ways to craft applications, programs, and systems that meet user needs. A day in the life of a software developer involves working on applications, programs, and systems at various stages of development. People who like solving problems, working with computers, and collaborating with fellow software professionals may thrive as developers. Software developers are creative, detail-oriented challenge-seekers.
You learn a programming language to craft your software program. There are about 14,000 programming languages!
Only a few are widely used in software development today. Among these, approximately 50 languages are considered popular and commonly used in various applications.
Most Common Programming Languages for Enterprise Application Development
In 2025, the programming landscape for enterprise applications is shaped by a mix of modern, versatile languages and legacy systems. The rankings are based on developer demand, real-world usage, and trends in enterprise software development.
1. Python Python remains the most popular language due to its simplicity, versatility, and dominance in AI, data science, and automation. Its extensive libraries like TensorFlow and Pandas make it indispensable for enterprise applications in analytics, machine learning, and web development.
2. C++ C++ has gained traction, overtaking C, due to its modern features and efficiency. It is widely used in performance-critical enterprise systems, game development, and embedded systems.
3. Java Java continues to be a cornerstone for enterprise applications, particularly in backend systems, Android development, and large-scale business software. Its platform independence and strong community support ensure its relevance.
4. C Despite a slight decline, C remains crucial for system-level programming, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications. It is often used in operating systems and hardware drivers.
5. C# C# is a preferred choice for Windows-based enterprise applications and game development with Unity. However, it has seen a decline due to the rise of cross-platform frameworks and competition from Python and Java.
6. JavaScript JavaScript is essential for web development, powering interactive frontends and server-side applications through frameworks like Node.js. Its versatility ensures its continued demand in enterprise web solutions.
7. SQL SQL is indispensable for managing and querying databases in enterprise applications. It is widely used in industries like banking, healthcare, and e-commerce for handling large datasets.
8. Go Go, developed by Google, is gaining popularity for cloud services, microservices, and backend development. Its simplicity and concurrency support make it ideal for scalable enterprise systems.
9. Delphi/Object Pascal Delphi has seen a resurgence due to its use in maintaining legacy systems and developing cross-platform applications. It is particularly popular in finance, healthcare, and industrial automation.
10. Visual Basic Visual Basic remains relevant for legacy enterprise applications and office automation, though its usage is gradually declining.
Emerging Trends Languages like Rust and Kotlin are gaining attention for their safety and modern features, while legacy languages like COBOL and Fortran continue to serve niche enterprise needs. Python's dominance in AI and data science, coupled with Java's stronghold in enterprise software, highlights the balance between innovation and stability in the programming landscape.
YOU ARE WELCOME!
Putting commands together to make the computer or digital phone obey a routine outlined in the software code. If the computer cannot perform a task, then it will throw an exception! I have been developing software code since 1972. I taught myself from books before the Internet.
SEE https://medium.com/@yashbatra11111/the-47-line-code-that-made-one-developer-2-million-from-ai-7269383d65db
When the Internet arrived in Australia in 1996, I referred to it for Visual Basic code:-
15 Websites to Learn to Code For Free in 2025
1. Codecademy
2. freeCodeCamp
3. Coursera
4. Udemy
5. Codewars
6. The Odin Project
7. Khan Academy
8. MIT OpenCourseWare
9. edX
10. W3Schools
11. Skillcrush
12. Code.org
13. Microsoft Learn
14. Sololearn
15.BitDegree
Software Development is defined as the process of designing, creating, testing, and maintaining computer programs and applications. Software development plays an important role in our daily lives. It empowers computers, smartphone apps, and supports businesses worldwide. The day-to-day work of software development means more than just sitting behind a keyboard. They build, test and maintain software.
Software developers find creative ways to craft applications, programs, and systems that meet user needs. A day in the life of a software developer involves working on applications, programs, and systems at various stages of development. People who like solving problems, working with computers, and collaborating with fellow software professionals may thrive as developers. Software developers are creative, detail-oriented challenge-seekers.
You learn a programming language to craft your software program. There are about 14,000 programming languages!
Only a few are widely used in software development today. Among these, approximately 50 languages are considered popular and commonly used in various applications.
Most Common Programming Languages for Enterprise Application Development
In 2025, the programming landscape for enterprise applications is shaped by a mix of modern, versatile languages and legacy systems. The rankings are based on developer demand, real-world usage, and trends in enterprise software development.
1. Python Python remains the most popular language due to its simplicity, versatility, and dominance in AI, data science, and automation. Its extensive libraries like TensorFlow and Pandas make it indispensable for enterprise applications in analytics, machine learning, and web development.
2. C++ C++ has gained traction, overtaking C, due to its modern features and efficiency. It is widely used in performance-critical enterprise systems, game development, and embedded systems.
3. Java Java continues to be a cornerstone for enterprise applications, particularly in backend systems, Android development, and large-scale business software. Its platform independence and strong community support ensure its relevance.
4. C Despite a slight decline, C remains crucial for system-level programming, embedded systems, and performance-critical applications. It is often used in operating systems and hardware drivers.
5. C# C# is a preferred choice for Windows-based enterprise applications and game development with Unity. However, it has seen a decline due to the rise of cross-platform frameworks and competition from Python and Java.
6. JavaScript JavaScript is essential for web development, powering interactive frontends and server-side applications through frameworks like Node.js. Its versatility ensures its continued demand in enterprise web solutions.
7. SQL SQL is indispensable for managing and querying databases in enterprise applications. It is widely used in industries like banking, healthcare, and e-commerce for handling large datasets.
8. Go Go, developed by Google, is gaining popularity for cloud services, microservices, and backend development. Its simplicity and concurrency support make it ideal for scalable enterprise systems.
9. Delphi/Object Pascal Delphi has seen a resurgence due to its use in maintaining legacy systems and developing cross-platform applications. It is particularly popular in finance, healthcare, and industrial automation.
10. Visual Basic Visual Basic remains relevant for legacy enterprise applications and office automation, though its usage is gradually declining.
Emerging Trends Languages like Rust and Kotlin are gaining attention for their safety and modern features, while legacy languages like COBOL and Fortran continue to serve niche enterprise needs. Python's dominance in AI and data science, coupled with Java's stronghold in enterprise software, highlights the balance between innovation and stability in the programming landscape.
YOU ARE WELCOME!
Updated
Godfred’s Answer
A software developer builds things with code. Aside from that, most of your time is spent reading and fixing existing code, not writing new stuff from scratch. You're debugging problems, updating old systems, and trying to understand what the last person was thinking.
It's also less about memorizing everything and more about knowing how to Google solutions and figure out why something broke. The job looks completely different depending on where you work. A startup developer does everything. A big company developer might touch one tiny piece of a huge system.
If you like solving puzzles and don't mind frustration, you'll probably enjoy it.
It's also less about memorizing everything and more about knowing how to Google solutions and figure out why something broke. The job looks completely different depending on where you work. A startup developer does everything. A big company developer might touch one tiny piece of a huge system.
If you like solving puzzles and don't mind frustration, you'll probably enjoy it.
Updated
Wong’s Answer
A software developer is someone who creates, designs, and maintains software applications or systems. They use programming languages (like Python or JavaScript) to write the code that makes computer programs run. Their job can range from creating mobile apps, websites, and games to developing complex systems for businesses.
Software developers often work with other team members, such as designers or project managers, to make sure the software works well and is easy to use.
In addition to writing code, software developers must constantly learn and adapt as technology changes. The role of a software developer can vary depending on the type of project or company, but the goal is always to create reliable, functional software that meets users' needs.
Overall, being a software developer means using technical knowledge to build programs that help people and businesses solve problems or improve efficiency.
Software developers often work with other team members, such as designers or project managers, to make sure the software works well and is easy to use.
In addition to writing code, software developers must constantly learn and adapt as technology changes. The role of a software developer can vary depending on the type of project or company, but the goal is always to create reliable, functional software that meets users' needs.
Overall, being a software developer means using technical knowledge to build programs that help people and businesses solve problems or improve efficiency.
Updated
Jason’s Answer
A clear outline that explains the role of an Enterprise Software Developer and compares it with a Software Architect and a DevOps Engineer, highlighting their unique duties and focus areas:
Enterprise Software Developer
Role Summary:
Designs and maintains software solutions for large organizations, ensuring they perform well and meet compliance standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develops applications using robust design patterns.
- Implements business logic, APIs, and data layers.
- Ensures code is scalable and performs well under heavy use.
- Works with teams using Agile and DevOps methods.
- Manages CI/CD pipelines and source control.
- Maintains compliance with regulations like HIPAA and GDPR.
Skills Required:
- Proficient in languages like C#, Java, and Python.
- Familiar with microservices, cloud patterns, and containers.
- Strong skills in debugging, testing, and optimization.
- Experience with frameworks like ASP.NET, Spring Boot, or Django.
Software Architect
Comparison:
- Focus: Developers write code and add features; architects design the system structure.
- Scope: Developers focus on specific teams or features; architects work across the entire system.
- Responsibilities: Developers code and test; architects choose tech stacks and enforce design standards.
- Collaboration: Developers work with architects and DevOps; architects align teams with a shared vision.
- Output: Developers deliver modules and services; architects produce high-level diagrams and strategy documents.
Architects focus on abstraction and system design, ensuring scalability and modularity for developers to build on.
DevOps Engineer
Comparison:
- Focus: Developers focus on application development; DevOps engineers focus on infrastructure automation.
- Scope: Developers handle application logic; DevOps engineers manage environment setup and monitoring.
- Responsibilities: Developers build software features; DevOps engineers automate infrastructure and deployment.
- Tool Expertise: Developers use IDEs and version control; DevOps engineers use tools like Terraform and CI/CD.
- Collaboration: Developers work with DevOps for deployment; DevOps engineers support developers with stable systems.
DevOps Engineers speed up delivery, ensure consistency, and maintain resilient systems.
Would you like to expand this into a guide or create a diagram for training or onboarding? I can also help tailor it for Azure environments or include hybrid cloud considerations.
Enterprise Software Developer
Role Summary:
Designs and maintains software solutions for large organizations, ensuring they perform well and meet compliance standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develops applications using robust design patterns.
- Implements business logic, APIs, and data layers.
- Ensures code is scalable and performs well under heavy use.
- Works with teams using Agile and DevOps methods.
- Manages CI/CD pipelines and source control.
- Maintains compliance with regulations like HIPAA and GDPR.
Skills Required:
- Proficient in languages like C#, Java, and Python.
- Familiar with microservices, cloud patterns, and containers.
- Strong skills in debugging, testing, and optimization.
- Experience with frameworks like ASP.NET, Spring Boot, or Django.
Software Architect
Comparison:
- Focus: Developers write code and add features; architects design the system structure.
- Scope: Developers focus on specific teams or features; architects work across the entire system.
- Responsibilities: Developers code and test; architects choose tech stacks and enforce design standards.
- Collaboration: Developers work with architects and DevOps; architects align teams with a shared vision.
- Output: Developers deliver modules and services; architects produce high-level diagrams and strategy documents.
Architects focus on abstraction and system design, ensuring scalability and modularity for developers to build on.
DevOps Engineer
Comparison:
- Focus: Developers focus on application development; DevOps engineers focus on infrastructure automation.
- Scope: Developers handle application logic; DevOps engineers manage environment setup and monitoring.
- Responsibilities: Developers build software features; DevOps engineers automate infrastructure and deployment.
- Tool Expertise: Developers use IDEs and version control; DevOps engineers use tools like Terraform and CI/CD.
- Collaboration: Developers work with DevOps for deployment; DevOps engineers support developers with stable systems.
DevOps Engineers speed up delivery, ensure consistency, and maintain resilient systems.
Would you like to expand this into a guide or create a diagram for training or onboarding? I can also help tailor it for Azure environments or include hybrid cloud considerations.
Updated
Neil’s Answer
Hi Erke
Interesting question - I see that there are some detailed responses here (including some which are cut-and-paste from AI).
What you might also want to think about is "what will a software developer *be* in a few years time?". That's an important consideration for someone thinking about their future career.
Right now, software development / software engineering is going through change, as artificial intelligence software is itself becoming more capable of creating new software. That suggests that future software developers will be less likely to be engaged in writing the code and act more as the interpreter between requirements (what the software needs to do) and delivery (how the software is put together) - with AI doing the actual code-writing part.
Good luck!
Neil
Interesting question - I see that there are some detailed responses here (including some which are cut-and-paste from AI).
What you might also want to think about is "what will a software developer *be* in a few years time?". That's an important consideration for someone thinking about their future career.
Right now, software development / software engineering is going through change, as artificial intelligence software is itself becoming more capable of creating new software. That suggests that future software developers will be less likely to be engaged in writing the code and act more as the interpreter between requirements (what the software needs to do) and delivery (how the software is put together) - with AI doing the actual code-writing part.
Good luck!
Neil
Updated
Yun’s Answer
Erke, a software developer is someone who designs and builds computer programs. These programs can be anything from phone apps and video games to business systems and websites.
Updated
Katherine’s Answer
Hi, Erke!
That's a great question. A Software Developer can work in many different areas.
I'm a user interface software developer, which means I create the parts of software that people see and use. This platform is a good example of a user interface!
I really enjoy being a user interface developer because I can see the changes I make in the code right away. It's satisfying to see the results quickly, and it also helps me spot any mistakes.
If you're interested in becoming a user interface software developer, JavaScript is a common language to learn. There are some free resources like Coddy and Codefinity that can help you get started.
That's a great question. A Software Developer can work in many different areas.
I'm a user interface software developer, which means I create the parts of software that people see and use. This platform is a good example of a user interface!
I really enjoy being a user interface developer because I can see the changes I make in the code right away. It's satisfying to see the results quickly, and it also helps me spot any mistakes.
If you're interested in becoming a user interface software developer, JavaScript is a common language to learn. There are some free resources like Coddy and Codefinity that can help you get started.
Updated
Amanpreet’s Answer
A software developer is like an architect and builder for digital things—instead of bricks and wood, they use code. A software developer is someone who designs and builds computer programs. These programs can be anything from mobile apps, video games, and websites, to the complex software that runs on cars, medical machines, or even space telescopes.
Updated
Sean’s Answer
Here's my take: It's all about using technology to solve problems. While tools and methods will evolve, we'll always need people who can work hard and think creatively to get things done. AI is a key tool, and the more you learn about it, the better you'll be able to keep up with the changes happening now. In the future, there will be more changes, just like in the past. Some people will adapt, and others might not. Best of luck!
Updated
tech’s Answer
A software developer is essentially developing software, and trying your best to make the software suck less.
I am a Chromium committer. I deal with bug fixes specifically in Chromdriver and Blink.
There are a lot of problem solving and code reading involve which I am interested in.
If you are interested in becoming a Chromium committer, C and C++ is a must. Try to learn the architecture and read the developer note.
Thank you for the question, Erica.
I am a Chromium committer. I deal with bug fixes specifically in Chromdriver and Blink.
There are a lot of problem solving and code reading involve which I am interested in.
If you are interested in becoming a Chromium committer, C and C++ is a must. Try to learn the architecture and read the developer note.
Thank you for the question, Erica.
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. I am glad to see you have interest in software development.
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many different kinds of software developer, e.g. Web Developer, ERP Developer, Apps Developer, System Developer, etc. They would use different programming language and specific domain knowledge. You can find out more different software development online.
2. Find out more the development discipline and determine what you have interest.
3. Speak to someone who are working in the software development stream to understand the real life practice.
4. Shortlist 1-2 development streams you have interest
5. Start learning the programming language and business domain knowledge
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. There are many different kinds of software developer, e.g. Web Developer, ERP Developer, Apps Developer, System Developer, etc. They would use different programming language and specific domain knowledge. You can find out more different software development online.
2. Find out more the development discipline and determine what you have interest.
3. Speak to someone who are working in the software development stream to understand the real life practice.
4. Shortlist 1-2 development streams you have interest
5. Start learning the programming language and business domain knowledge
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
520
Answers
Ethiopia
Updated
Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer
A software developer is someone who writes code and solves problems. They design, create, test, and take care of software like mobile apps, websites, and backend systems. Developers can focus on different areas: frontend developers build what users see, backend developers handle the server side, full-stack developers do both, mobile developers make apps for phones, DevOps engineers manage deployment and infrastructure, and embedded systems developers work on software for devices. If you want to become a software developer, you can pick the area that matches your skills and interests.