Technical problems usually don’t have a one-size-fits-all solution and that’s especially true for businesses and organizations with large scale software systems. It’s the job of solutions architects to understand user or functionality issues and resolve them by researching, designing and managing the implementation of solutions. Their work ensures that organizations are able to maximize efficiency and achieve their goals.
From traffic lights, to banking, to school work — most aspects of our daily lives rely upon functional software programs. It’s the job of a software quality assurance engineer to ensure that programs operate exactly as intended. They are involved in all aspects of the process – planning, developing and assessing progress. They closely monitor the development phase, conducting multiple testing phases to ensure program performance meets quality specifications and functions as expected.
Just like a theater set designer does for stage production, systems software developers work behind-the-scenes, designing the operating software that enables daily technology production – computers, phones, tablets, routers and more – to work; basically anything that has a chip in it requires a systems software developer to make it operate. Applying the principles of computer science, mathematical analysis and engineering, these professionals research, design, develop and test operating system components, drivers and debuggers to ensure that the daily technology show always go on.
Application software developers are the creative minds behind the apps we use every day, and not just the ones on our smartphones. Word processors, games and even internet browsers are all examples of programs created by application software developers. These professionals analyze the needs of businesses and consumers, then leverage their skills in computer science and software engineering to design, test and develop applications that meet those needs.
Software engineering architects are visionaries and planners, ensuring organizations have a software infrastructure that supports their unique business needs. With an understanding of goals and functional needs, they research and design customized software solutions, oversee development and implementation and ensure on-going functionality. With an eye to the future, they ensure that software systems are able to evolve with changing trends and emerging technologies.
Are you a natural leader who loves technology? Do you thrive helping others reach their goals? If you answered yes to both, you might want to consider a position as a scrum master. They ensure that the daily projects related to software development are completed efficiently and effectively. They work with all areas of a company to create a seamless collaboration with the software development team. They remove obstacles that might delay the team’s goals and help the team align their work to the company objectives.
Are you a great collaborator, coach and communicator? Then you might want to consider being an IT project manager. They are multi-taskers who oversee technology projects from start to finish. They ensure that large-scale projects run smoothly, working cross-functionally to ensure that technologies and supporting tasks are implemented on time, budget and meet goals.
Do you love brands? Are you a creative? Graphic designers create a company’s visual identity using a variety of design mediums. From logos to websites, they confer and consult with their client or team to develop a list of assets needed to perform daily operations. If you’re a collaborative, detail-oriented person, graphic design could be the career for you.
Cybercriminals steal and extort businesses, governments and private individuals out of $600 billion yearly—nearly one percent of the global GDP. As this figure increases, so does the demand for information security analysts. Tasked with preventing security breaches, these professionals are the gatekeepers of computer systems. They develop security plans that fit the needs of a business or organization, and then monitor and respond to potential threats.
When organizations are faced with mission critical IT projects—information technology architects serve as their captain. They are both visionary leaders and tech gurus, shaping information systems around the unique needs and challenges of organizations, testing and modifying their plans as needed. IT architects are leaders and communicators, providing oversight and guidance to achieve system goals.