THE MYTHS OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

Technology has become such a big part of the scientific world. It is often hard for most laymen to understand or grasp even the simpler concepts. But we need it, no doubt. It has become part of our everyday lives more than ever. 

We benefit much from technology. It makes things run faster, the work more efficient, communication easier, and many aspects in life more manageable. It can make operations less complicated, resulting in a steadier workflow. It helps drive efficiency, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge by automating tasks and enabling data-driven decision-making. 

Much of this is possible because of software development. What is it? Most likely, you’ve used it for your own website unknowingly. Is it a type of coding or programming? Is it the same as website development? How is it different? When is it used?

WHAT IT ISN’T

Software development is not simply coding or programming, though, it is usually mistaken as such. It is not just web development. It is not, well, a lot of things people think it is.

To understand software development, first understand the myths behind it. Below are the common misconceptions about the system.  

It is NOT…

Simple Coding. While it is part of the process, one does not just type code for many hours. Coding is only 20% to 30% of the work. It is the shortest phase of the job. The 80% of development is for communication, planning, analysis, designing, debugging, and testing.

Synonymous to Programming. If it’s not just coding, the more that it isn’t mere programming. Coding is only a part of programming, which is only a fundamental part of software development. Programming is a specialized subset focused on taking blueprints and writing the source code in languages to implement designs and make the software functional. 

A Linear, Direct Process. It is not like manufacturing. It’s not a straightforward, step-by-step procedure. No assembly lines, no strict input-output factory-style work. On the contrary. It is more of a creative, engineering, and iterative operation that requires constant problem-solving. 

Most times, collaboration and adaptation is necessary. That is why it is not easy to schedule or standardize. Unexpected challenges must be addressed and require adapting to the specific situations to create the solutions. 

Fast and Simple Application. Software development is anything but fast and simple. If it is, then you have to start questioning your developers. Knowing what to build is different from knowing how to build it. Of course, the how falls on the developers, and that is why they should debunk that myth for you.

It may seem quick and easy if you think development ends there. It doesn’t. What looks simple has gone through a complex system before you actually see it. Various adjustments may have to be made, depending on need. Remember:

• It’s not just a one-time deal.
• It’s not just debugging.
• It’s not just drag-and-drop. 
• It’s not just static.   

There needs to be extensive planning, designing, testing, and fixing or prevention of technical issues. It involves a lot of complicated architecture, logic, security, and hosting. Keeping to a fixed time and scope is far from effective. 

Truly Finished. Because it is not a linear or fast process, software development is usually a whole ongoing task. The job is never really fully done after the launch. It will regularly need support moving forward…

If you’re a business, you need to stay relevant, and so does your software. You need to satisfy your customers and retain or improve user engagement. That translates to revenue. Therefore, your investment needs to be updated and kept secured. Continuous website maintenance is very important. Security updates are vital. You can’t afford to be careless.

Undisciplined. The design may be fluid, but that doesn’t make agile software development an undisciplined framework that is anti-documentation and anti-planning. Being agile actually makes it a disciplined framework that promises quality results.

“Agile is the ability to create and respond to change. It is a way of dealing with, and ultimately succeeding in, an uncertain and turbulent environment…It’s really about thinking through how you can understand what’s going on in the environment that you’re in today, identify what uncertainty you’re facing, and figure out how you can adapt to that as you go along.” (Agile Alliance)

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The methodology is flexible, collaborative, and works on iterative progression. By breaking projects in parts, it allows for quality assurance 

All about Engineering. As previously emphasized, software development is a blend of “softer” things. It’s engineering, but there’s also creativity (art, craft), there’s logic. This helps negate the other misconception that it is…

Purely Technical. It takes more than incorporating the specific syntax of a programming language. It requires more human approaches and interaction. There must be communication, understanding of user needs through user feedback, focus on business objectives, and collaboration (normally between testers, designers and project managers).

A Solitary Job. Based on what’s said above, that is the complete opposite of solitary activity. Developers don’t work totally alone. They need the assistance of other experts who are more experienced in certain parts of the development process. But while it’s not a job for one, it’s also not…

“More Developers, Double the Velocity”. Having more developers does not mean it can speed up the results. In a way, adding a developer could solve a specific problem or add something new and needed. So, in some ways, the solution gets rid of a hindrance that keeps the software from functioning properly. 

However, if the reason is for faster results, that may be counter-productive and cause more delays for an already-delayed project. Having too many people is bound to backfire instead of help. Less is still more, in this case. Keep the number to a minimum–enough relevant developers with specific skills to offer, but less workers to avoid redundant tasks.

Strictly for Math Geniuses or CS degree holders. Software Development requires a lot of logical thinking and problem-solving. It may or may not be helpful to be a math genius or a Computer Science graduate. Yet, neither one is a requirement to become a good software developer. The system does not require a lot of math. And a developer could have a different educational background altogether. What matters is that the necessary level of practical skills is there. 

WHAT IT IS

According to IBM, “Software development refers to a set of computer science activities that are dedicated to the process of creating, designing, deploying and supporting software.” It is structured and, as it is non-linear, a muti-step process. 

Going with the Flow

The Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) ensures high-quality outcomes and efficient workflow. It also provides high-level security, which can be very crucial. The process involves:

1. Planning
2. Analysis
3. Design
4. Coding
5. Testing 
6. Deployment
7. Maintenance 

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The interconnected steps do not necessarily have to follow the exact sequence above. There are certain requirements, goals, and adjustments to consider for different projects and development models. Bespoke or custom software is common. It’s when the application is tailored to the needs of the client or organization. The project manager must be able to identify those needs to lead in the implementation.

Software vs Website

Many are confused. Is it the same as web development? Yes and No. 

Web development is a more commonly heard term. It covers front-end design, back-end logic, and full-stack development. It works on coding, technical design, down to optimization. It connects the site to a server and takes care of user-accessibility. It builds the sites that we use on a daily level and the field continuously grows.

However, website development is still only a specialized subset of the broader field of software development.  Therefore, whatever is about the former is also about the latter, but not exactly vice-versa. For instance, both involve coding, debugging, and similar programming languages. But the scope for the latter is much larger, encompassing diverse fields.

Website (specific)   Software (general)

Suffice it to say, the two disciplines differ yet overlap.

THE TRUTH ABOUT IT

Many misconceptions surround software development, but the truth outnumbers them. In the world of science, fact is always the basis and will prevail. You’ve heard only of the basics. There is still so much to explore about the system and see what it can do for you in your everyday life. If you’re a business owner, then see what more it can do for your business. 

Technology is there for a reason. The aim of scientists and developers is to always create, design, and modify technology to produce the latest best versions of it that will, hopefully, benefit anyone and everyone in the long run.