There is a lot of confusion about the roles of application developer vs. software developer. Some people think they are the same thing, while others believe that application developers are just a subset of software developers. So, what is the difference between these two roles? And which one should you choose if you want to pursue a career in coding?
In this blog post, we will explore the differences between application developers and software developers. We will also discuss which role might be a better fit for you, depending on your skills and interests. Let’s get started!
What’s an Application Developer?
Application developers are responsible for creating and maintaining application software.
This means they design and develop application programs that can be used by end users. They must write code, debug applications, and ensure the application is working properly.
Being an application developer is not synonymous with being a mobile app developer, as application development may include web applications, computer applications, mobile applications, and more.
One important responsibility of application developers is to make sure the application is easy to use and meets user requirements. Application developers often work with user experience experts to create a product that meets customer needs.
The primary focus of application developers is to make application programs that are fully functional, secure, and reliable.
What’s a Software Developer?
Software developers are responsible for developing software solutions.
This means they design, build, test, and maintain software applications and systems. They may also work on new features or upgrades for existing software.
Software developers typically have a deeper understanding of how applications work and how to fix errors. They also have a broader knowledge of computer systems and networks.
The scope of a software developer’s work is much wider than application developers, as they are also responsible for developing operating systems, databases, and machine learning algorithms.
Some of the software developer’s responsibilities include debugging, unit testing, architecture design, best practices, trade-offs, integration, and reusability.
Difference between Application Developer vs Software Developer
The main difference between application developers and software developers is the scope of their work.
Application developers focus on creating applications that are specifically tailored to meet user requirements, while software developers create more generalized software solutions.
The role of application developer vs. software developer has to do with their project responsibilities during different stages of product development lifecycle. An application developer, for example, creates mobile and computer apps from start to finish. A software developer writes the code for programs or systems and tests them for errors (or “bugs”). If any bugs are found, the software engineer will work to fix them.
Software development requires a deeper understanding of computer systems and programming languages than application development does. It also generally involves working with more complex algorithms and data structures.
Application developers are generally more focused on the user experience, while software developers focus on security and scalability.
When deciding between application developer vs software developer, consider your skills and interests. Application developers will likely be more focused on the user experience, while software developers will need to have a greater level of technical knowledge.
Whichever you choose, both application developers and software developers are vital to the success of any application or software system.
Similarities between Application Developer vs Software Developer
Although mobile app development focuses more on design and user experience while software development concentrates on generating new codes and following a quality code, both professions are similar in many ways, most notably in the following skills:
- Problem-solving
- Creativity
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work in teams or independently
- Knowledge of programming languages and computer systems
Both application developers and software developers must also have a comprehensive understanding of the application development lifecycle, including concept, design, testing, deployment and maintenance. They must also possess good communication skills and the ability to collaborate with other team members.
In summary, application developer vs software developer may differ in scope of project responsibility but both roles require similar skillsets for successful application/software development. It is important to understand the distinction between application developers and software developers so that you can choose the role that best suits your interests and skills.
Application Developer vs. Software Developer: Education
The education required to become either a software developer or an application developer is basically identical.
Both application developer and software developer positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. A graduate of a computer science program should have no problem finding a job with either title, provided they have a competitive resume and skill set.
Another option for becoming an application developer or a software developer is getting a coding bootcamp certification. This route is usually much shorter and only takes 2-6 months to complete, compared to a 4-year Bachelor’s degree. It is ultimately up to you which route you would want to take.
Application developers and software developers must also stay up to date on the latest technology and innovations, so continuing education or taking additional courses throughout your career is always a good idea.
Application Developer vs Software Developer: Salary
It is important to note that application developer vs software developer salaries differ depending on experience, the company you work for, and other factors.
Generally, application developers make slightly more than software developers. According to Glassdoor, application developers earn an average of $106,436 per year, while software developers earn a mean of $95,490 per annum.
The two titles are often interchangeable at many companies, and the salary differences may come down to the type of application being developed and the difficulty of the task. Ultimately, application developers and software developers are equally highly valued and are often compensated accordingly.
Application Developer vs Software Developer: Skills
It’s also important to note that application developer vs software developer skillsets differ as well.
Application developers must have an understanding of application design, coding languages and software frameworks. They are responsible for the look, feel and functionality of an application, as well as its performance and usability.
Software developers, on the other hand, should have a good grasp of coding languages and application development frameworks, as well as an understanding of application architecture and data structures. They are responsible for designing, coding and debugging software from start to finish.
Nevertheless, application developer vs software developer both require a deep understanding of application development and coding, as well as the ability to solve complex technical problems.
What’s about the Difference between Software Engineer vs. Software Developer?
Software engineer and software developer are often used interchangeably, but there are key difference between the two roles.
Software engineers are more involved in the overall software development process from start to finish, while software developers focus on specific developmental tasks.
Software engineers are responsible for designing, building, testing and maintaining complex application systems. In other words, software engineers are more like “architects”. They must have a deep understanding of the application development process, as well as knowledge in multiple coding languages and application frameworks.
Software developers are primarily responsible for writing code and debugging software applications. They need to have an understanding of application design, coding languages and application frameworks.
Does the Title Really Matter That Much in Reality?
Ultimately, application developer vs. software developer titles might not matter as much in reality.
Both application developers and software developers are highly sought-after skillsets, and employers are often looking for the same qualifications regardless of job title. Nowadays, application and software development roles have become so intertwined that many companies use application developer or software developer interchangeably.
At the end of the day, it’s important to focus on learning the right technologies and gaining the necessary experience in application development and software engineering. With the right skills and experience, you’ll be able to find a job regardless of title.
So while application developer and software developer positions may have some differences in skillset and salary, the two titles are mostly interchangeable and should not be a major factor when considering which role to pursue.
Conclusion
The title of application developer or software developer may not matter as much in reality, but it is important to focus on learning the right technologies and gaining the necessary experience. With the right skills and experience, you’ll be able to find a job regardless of title. Whether you are an application developer or software developer, both titles are highly sought-after skillsets that employers are often looking for the same qualifications.
Elmar Mammadov is a software developer, tech startup founder, and computer science career specialist. He is the founder of CS Careerline and a true career changer who has previously pursued careers in medicine and neuroscience.
Due to his interest in programming and years of past personal experience in coding, he decided to break into the tech industry by attending a Master’s in Computer Science for career changers at University of Pennsylvania. Elmar passionately writes and coaches about breaking into the tech industry and computer science in general.