5 steps that every software developer should be familiar with

Software development can take many forms depending on the development team, the project, and the circumstances. However, there are some steps that every software developer should know to get the right quality result. These 5 steps are presented in this blog post, along with the skills that developers need to possess.

5 steps every developer should know

Let's look at the 5 steps every developer should know, whatever the specific software development project.

Analysis and evaluation

People often think that the most important part of software development is coding, it is where the task starts and ends. However, this is a misconception. Coding is indeed a necessary step, but it is far from the most important one. 

The starting point of the development process is the analysis and evaluation of the given situation. This involves assessing the client company’s market position, its target group, and its problems. without this essential information, custom software development can easily fail.

Design

Once it is clear what the target group needs, the next step is planning. In this phase, software developers determine the main framework of the development. 

During the planning phase, the team breaks the task down into workflows, assigning manpower and deadlines to each. This is done in the spirit of the software development principles that the company follows. The very popular Agile framework, for example, is a fundamental way of defining the work and daily routines of developers.

Coding, Implementation

Once the specification has been set up, the coding, i.e. bringing the software to life, can begin in the defined order. The agile approach is to deliver working software in the shortest possible time, and then extend it over time, adding more functionality. The point is that the client company should not only look at the software at major milestones but on a much more regular basis. This will ensure that the result is what the client envisaged and meets their objectives.

Communication between the developer and the client is particularly important throughout the process, but also during the implementation phase. Without this, development can easily go sideways.

Testing

As mentioned above, testing is not just a one-off task. Testing of each unit is ongoing and should be started at the earliest possible stage. Testing can reveal bugs in the code and what needs to be improved in terms of user experience.

Implementation and maintenance

The final step that every developer should be prepared for is the delivery of the software. This includes training the employees of the company or the target group to use the software. If required, the process does not end with the handover of the software, as maintenance should be carried out at regular intervals to ensure that the software works effectively.

5 characteristics for success

During custom software development, the qualities of the development team are a key factor. Not only do they need to be aware of the most important steps, but some essential qualities will help them get the job done. Let's look at them!

• Punctuality: software developers often work in teams. So, you need to be aware that the work of one person affects the work of others, so if one person slips up, everyone will. 
• Curiosity: the best things happen when someone is trying to solve a real problem and is simply curious about the solution. This curiosity is also essential in development.
• The ability to collaborate: as we have said, software development is a team effort, but you need to collaborate not only with your team members but also with the client. This is often a big challenge. Openness is needed on both sides to ensure effective cooperation.
• Empathy: empathy is most needed in the design phase. When dreaming up features and design, you need to be able to change roles and think with the end-user in mind. This can significantly improve the result.
• Knowledge and skills: good developer knows where they are comfortable and where they need help and knows what they can do within a defined timeframe.

Software development is a task of trust, and at SynerinSoft we appreciate it when someone places their trust in us!