An estimated 85% of Americans own a smartphone, a figure up by 35% over the past decade. No matter the type of smartphone that these individuals use, they are familiar with mobile applications. Mobile applications are programs designed to run on tablets and smartphones, built by application developers to help users perform essential functions.
Whether a smartphone user is calling a friend or searching for directions, they are likely using a mobile application designed by an application developer. Application developers write software programs for use across mobile operating systems, including Apple, Android, and Windows devices. Once applications are created, application developers are also responsible for testing the application and providing updates whenever necessary.
If you have a passion for technology and you want to leverage software programming skills to create a variety of useful applications, the career of an application developer could be right for you.
What Is an Application Developer?
One of several potential careers for individuals with information technology degrees, application developers can design applications for use across mobile devices and tablets. They can also create applications for use across mobile and desktop spaces, particularly design and office programs.
Applications are sometimes known as app developers. Though application developers can sometimes share responsibilities with software developers or programmers, they are unique in their ability to design high-quality applications specifically for use on mobile devices.
To become an application developer, you’ll typically need to obtain an undergraduate degree. In addition, you might be asked to obtain one or more certifications. Some employers prefer to hire applications developers with at least a few years of experience in programming, development, or another IT-related field.
What Does an Application Developer Do?
Whether they’re creating new applications or updating existing apps according to new security protocols, application developers work to provide the best possible mobile experience for users.
Application developers are often responsible for the following duties:
- Creating new applications that help mobile or tablet users perform tasks more efficiently.
- Tailoring application details to ensure compatibility across both mobile and desktop hardware.
- Integrating mobile applications with a company’s existing network.
- Troubleshooting issues with application operations.
- Optimizing applications according to new security standards and changing business practices.
- Ensuring compliance within any local, state, and federal application parameters.
- Training new employees in the best application development practices.
- Communicating with other IT and technology employees.
These and other responsibilities keep application developers busy as they work to build and refine applications for users to enjoy.
Where Do Application Developers Work?
Application developers can work in a variety of locations. Some application developers will contract independently with companies or clients to provide applications according to their preferences. Other application developers are hired to work internally with a company’s IT or technology department, fulfilling similar responsibilities.
Application developers can work in the following industries and locations:
- Technology research firms
- Private businesses
- Nonprofit organizations
- Healthcare organizations
- IT providers
- Mobile phone research and production companies
- Cellular service providers
Application development is commonly considered a part of marketing, similar to growth hacking and other surprise marketing careers. As a result, some application developers can find employment at marketing agencies, advertising firms, or brand consulting companies.
What Education Does an Application Developer Need?
Education is a valuable component of any successful application development position. Before you can begin a career as an application developer, you’ll need to complete a few academic requirements.
You will need to obtain your undergraduate education to work as an application developer. Many aspiring application developers choose to complete a bachelor’s degree in software development, with which they can develop their knowledge of data management, scripting, and programming. Additionally, a bachelor's in cloud computing could be a good fit for aspiring app developers, giving yhrm important insight into cloud systems and programming in those areas.
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