10 answers
Aanya
Student
Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
1
Question
Asked
4202 views
what is the difference between software engineering and software development?
I'm a student who's just going to start o-levels this year and my subjects are ICT, physics, chemistry and the rest of the compulsory subjects. I wanted to take software engineering in my a-levels but I still want to browse my options before choosing. My goal is to be successful and to, well, make a lot of money. Keeping that in mind, what do you think is the perfect computer-related field for me to go in for my a-levels and then university?
10 answers
a b
Software Development
29
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
a’s Answer
Aanya from Pakistan -
The above answers covered the specific part of you question about Developer vs. Engineer. Engineer is just a newer version of the same discipline.
I'll answer more towards where you should put your effort.
There are too many new Software Engineers that focus on AI writing code for them. The art that's becoming "lost" is problem analysis, problem decomposition, and then solution composition.
I would recommend you give considerable attention to these, across all of your required courses. Learning to analyze and decompose problems is key to being a top performer in whatever field you choose. It will also gain you the highest salary, and position you to direct and mentor others.
You can also practice using AI to do these things, and you will ultimately be able to out-perform all of your peers.
Very best wishes!
Blaine from Oregon USA
The above answers covered the specific part of you question about Developer vs. Engineer. Engineer is just a newer version of the same discipline.
I'll answer more towards where you should put your effort.
There are too many new Software Engineers that focus on AI writing code for them. The art that's becoming "lost" is problem analysis, problem decomposition, and then solution composition.
I would recommend you give considerable attention to these, across all of your required courses. Learning to analyze and decompose problems is key to being a top performer in whatever field you choose. It will also gain you the highest salary, and position you to direct and mentor others.
You can also practice using AI to do these things, and you will ultimately be able to out-perform all of your peers.
Very best wishes!
Blaine from Oregon USA
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Aanya,
Software Development vs. Software Engineering
Software development and software engineering are closely linked in computer programming. Software development covers designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications. In contrast, software engineering uses a structured approach with engineering principles to ensure software is durable, scalable, and upgradable. It combines methods and practices to meet quality standards and achieve effective results. Both fields work together to create reliable software solutions.
Difference Between Software Development and Software Engineering:-
Software Development
• Creates software that runs on various types of computers.
• Software development is primarily an individual effort.
• Creates an entire program.
• Builds applications using ready-made tools.
• Does everything a software engineer does, but on a smaller scale.
Software Engineering
• Software engineering principles are used in the design, development, maintenance, testing, and evaluation of computer software.
• Software engineering is a team effort.
• Software engineering collaborates with other engineers to create system components.
• Software Engineering addresses problems on a much larger scale.
• It Creates the tools to develop software
Software Development
Software development involves creating, testing, and maintaining computer programs and applications. It's crucial in our daily lives, powering apps on smartphones and supporting businesses. Developers write the code that makes programs work, handling tasks like designing, programming, testing, and maintaining software.
Software Engineering
Software engineering involves designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software in a systematic way. It aims to produce high-quality, reliable, and maintainable software using various techniques and tools. Software engineering is a team effort, creating system components and tools for software development.
Conclusion: Software Development and Software Engineering
Both fields work on software development but have different roles. Developers focus on specific parts of a system or application, while engineers look at the overall system. Think of developers as the creative team building and maintaining the software, while engineers handle the larger structure and functionality.
GBU
Software Development vs. Software Engineering
Software development and software engineering are closely linked in computer programming. Software development covers designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications. In contrast, software engineering uses a structured approach with engineering principles to ensure software is durable, scalable, and upgradable. It combines methods and practices to meet quality standards and achieve effective results. Both fields work together to create reliable software solutions.
Difference Between Software Development and Software Engineering:-
Software Development
• Creates software that runs on various types of computers.
• Software development is primarily an individual effort.
• Creates an entire program.
• Builds applications using ready-made tools.
• Does everything a software engineer does, but on a smaller scale.
Software Engineering
• Software engineering principles are used in the design, development, maintenance, testing, and evaluation of computer software.
• Software engineering is a team effort.
• Software engineering collaborates with other engineers to create system components.
• Software Engineering addresses problems on a much larger scale.
• It Creates the tools to develop software
Software Development
Software development involves creating, testing, and maintaining computer programs and applications. It's crucial in our daily lives, powering apps on smartphones and supporting businesses. Developers write the code that makes programs work, handling tasks like designing, programming, testing, and maintaining software.
Software Engineering
Software engineering involves designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software in a systematic way. It aims to produce high-quality, reliable, and maintainable software using various techniques and tools. Software engineering is a team effort, creating system components and tools for software development.
Conclusion: Software Development and Software Engineering
Both fields work on software development but have different roles. Developers focus on specific parts of a system or application, while engineers look at the overall system. Think of developers as the creative team building and maintaining the software, while engineers handle the larger structure and functionality.
GBU
Aarti Jangid
Product Manager
2
Answers
Commerce, CA
Updated
Aarti’s Answer
Software engineering and software development are closely related but differ in scope and focus. Software development typically refers to the process of writing, testing, and maintaining code to build functional applications. It’s more focused on the implementation side—turning requirements into working software using programming languages, frameworks, and tools.
On the other hand, software engineering is a broader discipline that encompasses not just coding, but also system architecture, design principles, software lifecycle planning, testing methodologies, and maintenance. It involves applying engineering principles to ensure that software systems are reliable, scalable, and maintainable over time.
In simple terms, all software engineers are developers, but not all developers are software engineers. Engineers think more holistically about how a software system fits into a larger ecosystem, including long-term sustainability, risk management, and integration with other technologies.
For example, a custom software development company may employ both software developers to build specific app features and software engineers to architect the overall system, ensure scalability, and define development processes. While the titles are sometimes used interchangeably in the industry, understanding the distinction can help businesses hire the right talent for the right stage of their project.
On the other hand, software engineering is a broader discipline that encompasses not just coding, but also system architecture, design principles, software lifecycle planning, testing methodologies, and maintenance. It involves applying engineering principles to ensure that software systems are reliable, scalable, and maintainable over time.
In simple terms, all software engineers are developers, but not all developers are software engineers. Engineers think more holistically about how a software system fits into a larger ecosystem, including long-term sustainability, risk management, and integration with other technologies.
For example, a custom software development company may employ both software developers to build specific app features and software engineers to architect the overall system, ensure scalability, and define development processes. While the titles are sometimes used interchangeably in the industry, understanding the distinction can help businesses hire the right talent for the right stage of their project.
Johnny Tran
Software Engineer
6
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Johnny’s Answer
In finding jobs, you'll likely find both terms, software engineering and software development, used largely interchangeably. In the strictest terms, software development refers to the actual writing of software. However, it is important to know that writing software is only part of the job. Even if a job says it is looking for a software developer, most likely it is looking for a software engineer, where you will not only be developing software, you will also be designing, maintaining, and testing it too.
A degree in computer science might include classes in software engineering that will cover all of the above, from the design stage to the testing and debugging stage. Taking such a class now might be a good idea to get a taste of the field, and see if it's something you want to pursue! Because again, any job in software development is going to require software engineering skills as well.
Another important part of software engineering is communication and leadership. Since you are interested in being a successful software engineer, I will say that the best software engineers are also the ones who can communicate their vision, collaborate well on projects together, and write detailed documentation or design documents to pass on their knowledge to others. So while you work on your technical skills, don't neglect your communication and leadership skills as well!
Take a class to learn about software engineering.
Develop communiction and leadership skills to be a successful software engineer.
A degree in computer science might include classes in software engineering that will cover all of the above, from the design stage to the testing and debugging stage. Taking such a class now might be a good idea to get a taste of the field, and see if it's something you want to pursue! Because again, any job in software development is going to require software engineering skills as well.
Another important part of software engineering is communication and leadership. Since you are interested in being a successful software engineer, I will say that the best software engineers are also the ones who can communicate their vision, collaborate well on projects together, and write detailed documentation or design documents to pass on their knowledge to others. So while you work on your technical skills, don't neglect your communication and leadership skills as well!
Johnny recommends the following next steps:
Polina Alber
Software development
2
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Polina’s Answer
'Software Developer' and 'Software engineer' are often used interchangeably in the tech world, especially by companies hiring, there's a subtle but important distinction in their traditional definitions and scope of work:
Software Engineering - The Big Picture Architecture and Delivery. Software Engineering - the strategic, holistic approach to building software. It's not just about writing lines of code, but about ensuring the entire software system is well-conceived, robust, and delivered effectively.
Software Development - The Hands-On Builder. Software development is the practical execution of the engineering plan. Developers are the craftspeople who take the blueprints and build the actual components.
To be a good developer, you absolutely benefit from studying engineering and developing an engineering mindset. Embracing engineering principles is crucial for any developer aiming to build sustainable software, not just code that functions in the short term, but systems that are maintainable, scalable, and secure for the future. This mindset empowers you to make informed decisions when tackling coding challenges, selecting optimal data structures and algorithms so your code performs well under various conditions, not just "works." Understanding the 'why' behind architectural choices allows you to contribute more effectively, anticipate issues, and ensure your code aligns with overall system goals. Furthermore, an engineering perspective enhances collaboration and communication within teams, promoting clear documentation and seamless teamwork with architects, testers, and product managers. It also vastly improves your ability to debug complex systems, enabling you to trace problems across multiple layers rather than just focusing on your immediate code. Ultimately, while a formal degree isn't always necessary, a deep grasp of these principles is key for career progression, opening doors to senior, lead, and architectural roles where you design entire systems, not just implement features.
Software Engineering - The Big Picture Architecture and Delivery. Software Engineering - the strategic, holistic approach to building software. It's not just about writing lines of code, but about ensuring the entire software system is well-conceived, robust, and delivered effectively.
Software Development - The Hands-On Builder. Software development is the practical execution of the engineering plan. Developers are the craftspeople who take the blueprints and build the actual components.
To be a good developer, you absolutely benefit from studying engineering and developing an engineering mindset. Embracing engineering principles is crucial for any developer aiming to build sustainable software, not just code that functions in the short term, but systems that are maintainable, scalable, and secure for the future. This mindset empowers you to make informed decisions when tackling coding challenges, selecting optimal data structures and algorithms so your code performs well under various conditions, not just "works." Understanding the 'why' behind architectural choices allows you to contribute more effectively, anticipate issues, and ensure your code aligns with overall system goals. Furthermore, an engineering perspective enhances collaboration and communication within teams, promoting clear documentation and seamless teamwork with architects, testers, and product managers. It also vastly improves your ability to debug complex systems, enabling you to trace problems across multiple layers rather than just focusing on your immediate code. Ultimately, while a formal degree isn't always necessary, a deep grasp of these principles is key for career progression, opening doors to senior, lead, and architectural roles where you design entire systems, not just implement features.
Russ Efendiyev
17
Answers
Updated
Russ’s Answer
I would say it's best not to try to compare titles but rather look in the description. That gives a better gauge on what kind of work it is!
Allan Hernandez A
technical support
1
Answer
Heredia, Heredia Province, Costa Rica
Updated
Allan’s Answer
Software engineering covers a wide range of tasks, including planning, designing, and maintaining large software systems using engineering principles. Software development is part of this process, concentrating on building and coding specific applications. Simply put, a software engineer plans the overall system structure for the future, while a developer writes code for particular tasks.
Imran Rashid
Engineering Manager
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Imran’s Answer
Hi Aanya,
You should take my answer with a grain of salt, as I am in the USA with a different educational system -- but from the general theme you are asking about, I dont' think you should worry about the difference in "software engineering" vs "software development". While there are differences, they are very closely related. As others have said, I'd focus on courses that are Computer Science-related in general. To be successful in this field, you will have to know both, though down the line you might focus more in one direction vs the other.
Either one should set you up for an interesting career, with many opportunities.
Good luck, it sounds like you have great options ahead of you!
You should take my answer with a grain of salt, as I am in the USA with a different educational system -- but from the general theme you are asking about, I dont' think you should worry about the difference in "software engineering" vs "software development". While there are differences, they are very closely related. As others have said, I'd focus on courses that are Computer Science-related in general. To be successful in this field, you will have to know both, though down the line you might focus more in one direction vs the other.
Either one should set you up for an interesting career, with many opportunities.
Good luck, it sounds like you have great options ahead of you!
Chris Modica
Chief Technology Officer
3
Answers
Abbotsford, New South Wales, Australia
Updated
Chris’s Answer
Having started my career as a Software Engineer and working with and as a Software Developer this is a very topical question industry
The best analogy is to think of software engineering as the architecture and construction planning of a building, while software development is the actual building work. Software engineers should be able to be software developers and software developers should have some awareness of software engineering principals
As most have commented on employers and industry use these titles interchangeably. This said there is a clear distinction and, in some countries, e.g. Germany. You must have an accredited engineering degree (and often local approval) to call yourself a Software Engineer. This isn't the case for most countries at large.
Generally speaking, Software Engineers, do and can make more $$ than software Developers. Increasingly though it's based on skills and experience. The main thing to way up is the length of your degree, typically engineering is 4-5 users, computer science/ICT degrees are 2-3. And code camps now exist which can be enough to get a start as a developer.
My primary advise is not to make a decision on which path you'll take based on money. If you're passionate and interested about what you do, and are disciplined in your studies, prove yourself in industry. In the fullness of time money will follow. If however, you chase money e.g. engineering over ICT, and you're not passionate about the engineering side of your degree (e.g. physics, mathematics and electronics) it'll be hard to be successful in your studies and/or remain motived. A large amount of engineering students, transfer to ICT degrees in their initial year(s) of uni, or they complete their engineering degrees only to never use their engineering degree.
Ultimately there is no wrong answer, both are great paths. My advice is focus on the subjects that your degree would cover, the length of the degree and what your personal interests and skills are.
The best analogy is to think of software engineering as the architecture and construction planning of a building, while software development is the actual building work. Software engineers should be able to be software developers and software developers should have some awareness of software engineering principals
As most have commented on employers and industry use these titles interchangeably. This said there is a clear distinction and, in some countries, e.g. Germany. You must have an accredited engineering degree (and often local approval) to call yourself a Software Engineer. This isn't the case for most countries at large.
Generally speaking, Software Engineers, do and can make more $$ than software Developers. Increasingly though it's based on skills and experience. The main thing to way up is the length of your degree, typically engineering is 4-5 users, computer science/ICT degrees are 2-3. And code camps now exist which can be enough to get a start as a developer.
My primary advise is not to make a decision on which path you'll take based on money. If you're passionate and interested about what you do, and are disciplined in your studies, prove yourself in industry. In the fullness of time money will follow. If however, you chase money e.g. engineering over ICT, and you're not passionate about the engineering side of your degree (e.g. physics, mathematics and electronics) it'll be hard to be successful in your studies and/or remain motived. A large amount of engineering students, transfer to ICT degrees in their initial year(s) of uni, or they complete their engineering degrees only to never use their engineering degree.
Ultimately there is no wrong answer, both are great paths. My advice is focus on the subjects that your degree would cover, the length of the degree and what your personal interests and skills are.
Harsha Priya Ganapathy
Independent AI, ML, DL Researcher
4
Answers
Sugar Land, Texas
Updated
Harsha Priya’s Answer
Difference Between Software Engineering and Software Development
Software engineering is a broader field that uses engineering principles to design, build, test, and maintain complex software systems. It focuses on the full software lifecycle - planning, architecture, scalability, team coordination, and long-term maintenance.
Software development, on the other hand, is more focused on the actual coding and building of software applications. Developers typically work on writing code to create apps, websites, or software features, but may not be involved in the larger engineering decisions.
In simple terms:
• Software engineering = big-picture thinker and builder of systems.
• Software development = hands-on coder focused on getting things to work.
Best Computer-Related Fields for Your Goals
Since you’re aiming to be successful and earn a high income, here are some strong fields to consider:
1. Computer Science
This is the core of everything tech-related. A degree in computer science gives you flexibility to branch into AI, cybersecurity, app development, or data science later. It’s highly respected and opens many doors.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML)
This is one of the fastest-growing and highest-paid fields. Professionals in AI work on things like self-driving cars, intelligent assistants, and predictive analytics. It requires strong math and problem-solving skills.
3. Cybersecurity
With increasing digital threats, cybersecurity experts are in huge demand. Ethical hackers, security analysts, and penetration testers can make a great living by protecting data and networks.
4. Software Engineering
A structured career path focused on building large, scalable systems like apps, platforms, or even entire tech infrastructures. It combines coding with logical thinking, architecture, and team collaboration.
5. Data Science / Big Data
This field involves analyzing large sets of data to find patterns and insights. It’s widely used in finance, healthcare, marketing, and social media. Data scientists often earn high salaries.
6. Game Development / Computer Graphics
This is a more creative field — building video games, simulations, or visual effects. It’s competitive but exciting, especially if you’re passionate about gaming or animation.
What You Can Do Now (as an O-Level Student)
1. Stick with ICT – it’s a great start and will help you build basic computer literacy.
2. For A-Levels, consider taking:
• Mathematics
• Computer Science (if available)
• Physics (optional but useful)
3. For university, aim for a Computer Science degree, which gives you the widest range of career options in tech.
Final Advice
If your goal is to make a lot of money and build a successful career in technology:
• Choose Computer Science as your main focus.
• Build skills in programming early (start with Python or web development).
• Explore areas like AI, cybersecurity, or software engineering as you go.
Software engineering is a broader field that uses engineering principles to design, build, test, and maintain complex software systems. It focuses on the full software lifecycle - planning, architecture, scalability, team coordination, and long-term maintenance.
Software development, on the other hand, is more focused on the actual coding and building of software applications. Developers typically work on writing code to create apps, websites, or software features, but may not be involved in the larger engineering decisions.
In simple terms:
• Software engineering = big-picture thinker and builder of systems.
• Software development = hands-on coder focused on getting things to work.
Best Computer-Related Fields for Your Goals
Since you’re aiming to be successful and earn a high income, here are some strong fields to consider:
1. Computer Science
This is the core of everything tech-related. A degree in computer science gives you flexibility to branch into AI, cybersecurity, app development, or data science later. It’s highly respected and opens many doors.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML)
This is one of the fastest-growing and highest-paid fields. Professionals in AI work on things like self-driving cars, intelligent assistants, and predictive analytics. It requires strong math and problem-solving skills.
3. Cybersecurity
With increasing digital threats, cybersecurity experts are in huge demand. Ethical hackers, security analysts, and penetration testers can make a great living by protecting data and networks.
4. Software Engineering
A structured career path focused on building large, scalable systems like apps, platforms, or even entire tech infrastructures. It combines coding with logical thinking, architecture, and team collaboration.
5. Data Science / Big Data
This field involves analyzing large sets of data to find patterns and insights. It’s widely used in finance, healthcare, marketing, and social media. Data scientists often earn high salaries.
6. Game Development / Computer Graphics
This is a more creative field — building video games, simulations, or visual effects. It’s competitive but exciting, especially if you’re passionate about gaming or animation.
What You Can Do Now (as an O-Level Student)
1. Stick with ICT – it’s a great start and will help you build basic computer literacy.
2. For A-Levels, consider taking:
• Mathematics
• Computer Science (if available)
• Physics (optional but useful)
3. For university, aim for a Computer Science degree, which gives you the widest range of career options in tech.
Final Advice
If your goal is to make a lot of money and build a successful career in technology:
• Choose Computer Science as your main focus.
• Build skills in programming early (start with Python or web development).
• Explore areas like AI, cybersecurity, or software engineering as you go.
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