The application of the software is all-pervasive. Objects that work on software surround the world at large. From the coffee machine to the gadget in which you are reading this piece right now. Software development is the key to digital human life.
Check out some interesting statistics
Here is a quick statistical heads-up. In the year 2018, the software development sector contributed around 1.6 trillion dollars of value-added GDP in the US economy. If this data isn’t succinct enough to excite you, hang in there, for the next piece of the stat.
According to a report in Evans Data Corporation, in the year 2019 US alone had more than 26.4 million software developers. It estimates that by the year 2023, the US will have around 27.7 million software developers in the US.
Why is there a need to get the basic skills sorted?
With the extent of reliance on technology, the upward movement of the curve is quite evident. The inclusion of newer varieties of technology Like AI, Machine Learning, and the Internet of Things set the tone for future software developers.
The prospects of growth and the new job opportunity provided necessary inspiration for aspiring software developers to up the game. It has made the employment ecosystem for a software developer all the more competitive.
Most of the rookie software developers cannot pierce through the existing competitive environment and remain jobless. It is not as if all the software developers end up having jobs. However, the ones with strong basic technology related skills swim through.
Having the right skills helps the process of adapting to new skills and changing industry demands a smooth ride. We have listed below five such skills which ensure that your foundation is rock solid, and you have no issue in adapting to changes in native technology.
Core skills
1. Fluency in operating with one text editors
Text editors like VIM and Notepad++ are essential in the making of a software developer. The extensive use of these tools leaves you with no choice, but to master them.
Individuals with a remote connection to the programming world also use tools. Sure they do not use VIM, but they do use generic text editors. For the programming geeks, the stakes are high, a proper understanding of advanced text editor platforms like Notepad ++ and VIM is the key.
VIM is often touted as the programmers editors and that is true considering the benefits that it brings to the table. Below we have mentioned three reasons for VIMs popularity.
- Command, text framed in VIM editor is transferable to other platforms
- The use of VIM is prevalent everywhere
- The level of difficulty in mastering VIM is moderate
2. Working with classics SQL and Database
Every aspiring programmer plans to learn a new language every year. It has become a cult now, so you have aspiring programmers learning, and expanding their programming vocabulary. Now, the question: what sets them apart? Well, it is a classic programming language like SQL that acts as a differentiating marker.
The best thing about SQL is that it has remained the same for almost 35 years. Also, this language might remain largely the same in the next two or three decades to come. Yes, the vendors will add some new elements to SQL extension. But the core largely remains untouched in any scenario.
An apt knowledge of SQL brings into play and enhances your ability to swiftly work with data. It improves the elements in your database code. Also, working data and tables can help you in obtaining performance gain.
3. Command over OOP programming language
It is quite a given fact that the first thread to become a software developer is to acquaint yourself with programming languages like Python and C++.
According to experts, Java is the place to begin as it covers everything from web development to Big Data. However, the key is to start getting a hold on OOP programming languages. The choice hardly matters, it is not choosing that matters.
Right from the initial stages of your career till you become a pro, learning a new language a constant. The importance of starting from the right programming language can make a world of difference.
Abstract skills
4. Problem-solving acumen
Amidst requiring technical skills, the aspiring software developers often overlook the most basic skill of problem-solving.
The basic premise of software development or programming for that matter to act as an instrument for the elimination of problems.
Technology always focuses on making the life of the general public easier. So a programmer that lacks in problem-solving beats the whole point of the vocation.
5. Business Knowledge
A programmer must understand how the economics of the software industry works, it might sound a bit uncanny. But if you understand the economics of it all, managing clients’ expectations will be easier.
A software developer who has both the business acumen to go along with the technology has an added advantage over the peers. They have a better chance of developing a tool that is both cost-effective and provides the required results.
Conclusion
The shift in the technological world to Artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things has scaled up the prerequisites of a skilled software developer.
A perfect blend of classic SQL and modern version of a programming language is what the industry demands in the here and now. The competition isn’t helping the cause either.
The software development company is and will continue to be an important part of any economy. So, if you wish to be part of this thriving community, the zeal for learning is a must be never-ending.