Understanding Software Development and its Role in Your Business

Software development has been the driver of some incredible feats of innovation worldwide, powering everything from the smartphones we can't live without to the video games that keep us glued to the TV to the sophisticated AI systems transforming the world around us. For startups and scaleups, having a highly skilled software development team could be the breakthrough you need to advance tech innovation, power your business growth, and gain a foothold in your markets. 

Before you start spending your budget on building your own software development dream team, it is important to know exactly what you are investing in. So, as experts in the field, we have put together this fascinating guide covering everything from methodologies to SLDC to the vital software development roles you need in your team. So, let’s get going; our first stop will be exploring the different elements of software development. 

What are the Different Elements of Software Development?

As software development is such a multi-faceted process that requires a lot of planning, execution, and constant evaluation, it is really important to understand the essential concepts behind it before you start growing your team. These include programming languages, development, and the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC). By focusing on these key elements, your business can get ready to make an impact in your market and set yourself up for sustainable growth. 

Programming Languages 

Often one the first areas people think of when they think of software development. And that’s for good reason! Programming languages empower teams to create, design, and implement applications seamlessly. Without them, articulating complex instructions becomes a daunting task.

As software projects evolve, specific expertise in programming languages becomes crucial. Whether you’re venturing into web, mobile, or game development, various languages cater to distinct needs. Here is a snapshot of two examples of programming languages software developers are experts in: 

Python 

Python is the go-to choice for many developers who crave simplicity and readability. Its open-source spirit and vibrant community make it a fantastic ally for programming enthusiasts.

When it comes to web development, Python shines, using frameworks like Django and Flask to craft stunning applications, but wait, it doesn't stop there! Python's automation prowess transforms mundane, repetitive tasks into streamlined processes that save time and effort. 

Plus, software testers often use Python frameworks, such as PyTest and Unittest, for comprehensive testing with ease. In a nutshell, Python’s user-friendly nature, combined with its vast libraries, makes it a game changer for any software development team.

JavaScript 

JavaScript is a foundational programming language that really packs a punch in software development.  Its applications include:

• Front-end Development - Paired with HTML and CSS, JavaScript allows developers to create engaging, interactive websites. 

• Back-end Development - With Node.js, developers can build server-side applications and create RESTful APIs for seamless communication with front-end applications.JavaScript's versatility means it goes beyond web development, which will be explored further later on in our guide.

Development Methodologies

Software development methodologies are crucial for teams looking to create outstanding and user-friendly applications. These frameworks boost efficiency, spark teamwork, and drive meaningful outcomes. Understanding these methodologies is non-negotiable for software development teams; they make workflows smoother, elevate project management, and enhance adaptability. While many options are available, a handful of methodologies truly shine:

Agile 

Agile emerged as a more adaptable alternative to traditional methodologies like Waterfall. Its iterative, collaborative approach makes sure there’s flexibility throughout the software development process. 

Some of its standout aspects include:

• Iterative Development - Projects are divided into manageable cycles known as ‘sprints.’
• Customer-focused - Clients remain engaged throughout the development process.
• Responsive - Changes are viewed as opportunities for improvement.
• Adaptive - Solutions are generated through cross-functional teamwork.
• Functional Software - Delivery of working software takes precedence over extensive documentation.

Need proof of its adoption among businesses?  According to the 17th State of Agile Report, a huge 70% of respondents said its software development teams use Agile, along with engineering, product, and R&D teams. 

Waterfall

Waterfall, one of the classic methodologies in software development, offers a structured approach that some developers find a bit... well, a little rigid. First introduced in 1970 by Dr. Winston W. Royce, this model breaks down the process into distinct phases, where each step requires completion before diving into the next.

The phases of the Waterfall model are as follows: 

• Requirements Gathering - The project’s targets and functionalities are defined and then meticulously documented. 

• Analysis - System specifications are analysed to form business logic and product models. Possible financial constraints are also assessed. 

• Design - A document for design specification is made outlining programming languages, hardware, data sources, and architecture.

• Implementation - Based on the design, source code is created. 

• Testing - Tests are carried out to identify any potential issues. 

• Deployment - The product is live and used by users.

• Maintenance - Measures are taken to maintain and improve the product, which might include patches. 

Even though many software developers see its drawbacks, the Waterfall method does have its perks. Its structured approach keeps things organised, making tasks easier to follow, and with clear deadlines in place, everyone knows exactly what to expect.

Software Development Life Cycle (SLDC)

The SDLC is your roadmap to success, offering a clear, structured pathway that software teams follow to create and evaluate the effectiveness of their projects. For business leaders aiming to build a software development team, grasping the ins and outs of the SDLC is essential. It ensures smooth project management, drives effective communication, and aligns software initiatives with broader business objectives. Let’s dive into the steps that make it all happen:

• Planning and Requirement Analysis: The project's goals and scope are defined. Stakeholders, customers, and industry experts may be consulted. 

• Design: The software architecture is built based on the requirements. This will include designing the UI and UX, as well as designs for the database and system. 

• Development: Using design specifications, software developers write the code. 

• Testing: Software testers identify and rectify problems. This could involve unit testing, integration testing, system testing, or user acceptance testing.

• Deployment: The software is released to end-users. 

• Maintenance: Support and updates are provided where necessary. 

When tackling your project, it’s key to pick the right model from the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) - be it Agile or Waterfall. Tailoring your approach to match your specific needs streamlines the process and transforms the way you handle complex software projects, keeping the workflow efficient and ensuring that the results align perfectly with your business goals. 

What are the Various Types of Software Development?

When building your software development team, it is really important to understand the different types of development that are out there (there are quite a few!). Knowing what each one brings to the table will help you make the right hiring choices and set your team up for success. Below are the core areas you need to consider: 

• Front-End Development - Focuses on user interface (UI) and user experience (UX), ensuring an engaging and intuitive design for end-users.

• Back-End Development - Manages server-side logic, databases, and overall architecture to support seamless functionality.

• Full-Stack Development - Combines front-end and back-end expertise, allowing developers to create complete and functional applications.

These key elements are the foundation of any team building powerful and innovative web applications. Popular programming languages like Python, CSS, and JavaScript play a huge role in making web development effective and successful. However, web development is just part of a much bigger picture; software development stretches far beyond this, covering specialised areas that bring their own unique challenges and opportunities.

Mobile Application Development

This is the process of software development teams creating applications tailored to mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Given the sheer number of mobile phones and our reliance on them in our daily lives, it should come as no surprise this area of software development is continuing to grow fast. 

Platforms 

Again, unsurprisingly, Android and iOS are the two dominant platforms for mobile app development. Google develops Android and uses Java or Kotlin, whereas Apple develops iOS and uses Swift or Objective-C programming languages. 

Types of Mobile Applications 

• Native Apps: Built for specific operating systems. Software teams will use languages and tools designed for the respective system. 

• Hybrid Apps: Use one codebase that runs on several platforms. They implement HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and are then wrapped in a native container. 

• Cross-Platform Development: Similar to hybrid apps, however, it utilises advanced apps like Xamarin or Flutter. 

System Software Development

System software development is all about building and maintaining the vital programmes that keep computer hardware running smoothly. Think of it as the foundation that holds everything together; without it, nothing else works as it should.

These are the main types of system software: 

• Operating Systems: Provide user interfaces, manage hardware resources, and facilitate other programs running. 

• Device Drivers: This software allows communication between the operating system and hardware devices.

• Firmware: A form of microcode embedded into hardware for better operativity. 

• Utilities: Programs that optimise a computer system. 

Game Development  

How can you ensure your gaming projects are built on a solid technical foundation? Well modern game development relies on powerful software frameworks like Godot, Unity, and Unreal Engine. These would include all the important parts of developing the next breakthrough game -  graphics rendering, physics simulations, audio systems, scripting and programming interfaces, asset management tools, and cross-platform development support. 

Software development teams also have room to push their creative limits and create a captivating and breathtaking gaming experience. They can do this in many ways, including: 

• Level Editors: Allows for the modification of game environments and characters. 

• Audio Software: Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live, FL Studio, and Logic Pro can be used to make music and sound effects. 

• 2D Art Software: Adobe Photoshop and GIMP are tools used for creating backgrounds and interfaces in 2D games. 

• Animation Software: Blender, Maya, and 3ds Max are software tools for creating 3D environments. 

Highly imaginative and immersive games are made possible with teams of talented and skilled software developers. As software advances and your team gains new expertise, the quality of games is going to improve too! 

Embedded Systems Development 

Next, you'll find software development teams creating software for specific hardware devices. These embedded systems are designed for specialised functions and are found everywhere, from everyday household appliances to cars. The development process typically includes these steps:

• Requirement Analysis: The system’s functionality is outlined. 

• Hardware: Selecting a suitable microcontroller or processor. 

• Software Design: Building the software architecture.

• Coding: Writing the code using programming languages like C and C++.

• Testing: Software testers ensure it’s working correctly. 

• Debugging: Fixing any issues. 

• Optimisation: Enhancing performance. 

• Deployment: Installation of software to hardware. 

With the continued expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT), embedded software development will play a role in software development, which means that to really make an impact in your markets, you need professionals with the right level of expertise. 

5 Software Development Roles You Need in Your Team

Now that you've seen the power that software development can have in growing your business and driving innovation in your markets, let's look at the types of roles you can bring on board to build the ultimate software development team. 

1. Product Owner 

Product owners are dedicated to really maximising the value of a product and making sure your project is a success. Through their excellent communications with stakeholders and gathering customer requirements, they develop a clear vision of how the product should function, define specific product features, and break those features into product backlog items for the Scrum team to work on. 

They come equipped with a combination of skills that enable them to manage the product from ideation to delivery effectively. These skills include Agile development, product management, communication, and business analysis. 

If you have found your dream candidate, then they are likely to expect a salary of £58,184. 

2. Front-End Developer

Front-end developers are all about making sure the user-facing side of your application and websites works seamlessly. They focus on creating designs that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional, which are crucial for building a happy and satisfied customer base. 

Front-end developers are experts in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. They will also have extensive knowledge of front-end frameworks and libraries like React, Angular and Vue.js and experience with CSS preprocessors like SASS or LESS. Also, optimising applications is also a key part of their role and part of this process is detecting and fixing front-end issues.

Looking to hire one? Front-end developers will likely ask for an average salary of £41,343 per year. 

3. Back-end Developers

Next on our list are the talented back end developers. They work on server-side software, which focuses on everything the user can’t see on the website. They make sure the website performs excellently, focusing on back-end logic, architecture, services, and databases. They also use code that helps browsers communicate with databases to understand, store, and delete data. 

Back-end Developers are extremely skilled in a range of programming languages, like Ruby, Python, PHP, and Node.js. They’re also experienced with backend frameworks like Spring, Laravel or Flask. They’re experts with RESTful API design and API security for API development. 

Want to bring a back-end developer into your team? Get ready to budget for a salary of around £48,079. 

4. UI/UX Designer 

A UI/UX Designer have a crucial role of creating digital experiences that are visually eye-catching and also intuitive and highly enjoyable to use. Their role goes beyond aesthetics, they dive into user research, define problems, and develop smart, user-friendly solutions. By prototyping and testing their designs, they make sure that every interaction feels seamless, ultimately giving a major boost to user satisfaction and business success.

They also use innovative tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, and Sketch to bring ideas to life while staying on top of the latest cutting-edge trends in design and technology. 

Due to their vital work in your team and the host of benefits they bring to user experiences, expect to pay them around £51,761. 

5. Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer 

They play a really important role in the quality assurance process, to make sure everyworks as intended, doesn’t have annoying bugs or critical errors, and ultimately you have a product ready to make an impact. So how to they do this? By overseeing the entire software design, development, and testing process. 

To carry out this role, they bring a host of skills to your business, including analytics and problem-solving skills, excellent communication and collaboration, and incredible attention to detail. 

Want to bring a great QA Engineer on board? Be ready to get out your cheque book and pay them a salary of £39,125. 

This list certainly isn’t exhaustive! There are plenty of vital roles your business can hire now and in the future to ensure you drive the next generation of innovation. So, if you’re ready to build your software development and want our expert advice on how to hire the best talent, then contact our team today! 

Let’s Wrap Up!

So, whether you're building a mobile app, a web platform, or an AI-driven system, having the right team and approach is crucial. From understanding methodologies like Agile and Waterfall to recognising the key roles that bring a project to life, a strong foundation in software development ensures your business stays ahead of the curve.

By equipping your team with the right skills and expertise, you'll be ready to drive innovation, enhance user experiences, and set your business up for long-term growth. The right talent, tools, and strategy can transform an idea into a market-leading product. So, as you take the next step in your software development journey, the question is: do you have the right team in place to make it happen? 

Ready to Build your Software Development Team? 

We understand the challenges of being an ambitious startup or scale up when it comes to looking for talent. Competing with the industry giants, limited talent pools, and managing the minefield of compensation and benefits, we know it’s tough! However, with our vast expertise and unrivalled talent solutions, we’ll get you the people you need to build a high-impact software development team. 

Want to find out more? Contact us here to get in touch with a member of our team.