You're considering a career change to application development. What should you know before making the switch?

1 What is application development?

Application development is the process of designing, building, testing, and deploying software applications that run on various platforms, such as web browsers, mobile devices, desktop computers, or cloud servers. Applications can range from simple websites and games to complex enterprise systems and artificial intelligence. Application developers use various programming languages, tools, frameworks, and methodologies to create applications that meet the needs and expectations of users and clients.

2 What are the benefits of application development?

Application development is a dynamic and diverse field that offers many benefits for those who pursue it as a career. For example, software developers are in high demand and can earn a median annual wage of $110,140 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with an expected growth rate of 22% from 2019 to 2029. Additionally, application developers have the flexibility and autonomy to work remotely, choose their own hours, and pursue different types of projects. Moreover, they have the opportunity to express their creativity and use their logical thinking skills to solve challenging problems. They can design and implement features and functions that enhance the user experience, optimize the performance, and improve the security of their applications. Additionally, they can learn from feedback, testing, and debugging to refine and improve their code.

3 What are the challenges of application development?

Application development comes with a variety of challenges, such as complexity and change. Software developers must be knowledgeable in complex systems and algorithms, as well as keep up with the ever-changing industry standards and best practices. Additionally, application development is a highly competitive field that requires dedication and commitment to meet tight deadlines and budgets. Communication and collaboration are also essential elements of application development, as developers must work with other professionals, share ideas, explain code, and use the correct tools. All of these factors create pressure for developers to produce high-quality products while competing for jobs, clients, and recognition.

4 What skills do you need for application development?

Application development requires a combination of hard and soft skills that can help you succeed in the field. You need to learn at least one or more programming languages, such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, Ruby, Python, Java, Kotlin, Swift, or Objective-C. Furthermore, you must understand the syntax, semantics, and features of each language. Additionally, you need to use various tools and frameworks to create, test, and deploy applications. Examples include an integrated development environment (IDE), a version control system (VCS), and a framework. You should also learn fundamental concepts and principles of application development such as data structures, algorithms, object-oriented programming, functional programming, design patterns, and software engineering. Additionally, you must learn the basics of user interface design, user experience design, and accessibility. Finally, you need to develop your soft skills such as communication, collaboration, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity and learning. These abilities will help you work effectively with others and generate innovative solutions.

5 How do you prepare for a career change to application development?

If you're ready to make a career change to application development, here are some steps you can take to prepare yourself. First, assess your current skills and interests to identify your strengths and weaknesses, as well as determine what type of applications you want to develop and the tools and frameworks you need to learn. You can use online resources such as blogs, podcasts, videos, and courses to explore the different aspects of application development. Then set realistic goals and plan your learning path accordingly. Choose the best learning methods and sources for your needs and preferences, such as books, online courses, tutorials, workshops, bootcamps, or mentors. As you learn and practice your skills, build your portfolio and network to showcase your work and connect with other developers and potential employers. Create a personal website, a GitHub account, a LinkedIn profile, and a resume that highlight your projects, skills, and achievements. Participate in online communities such as Stack Overflow, Reddit, Meetup, and Hacker News where you can ask questions, share insights, get feedback, and find opportunities.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?