Are you interested in exploring a potential career in the tech industry? One field that's currently in high demand is app development, which requires a unique set of skills and knowledge. A survey by LinkedIn showed that the need for developers will increase by 17% between 2020-25 in Australia and companies are willing to offer higher salaries to attract top talent. In this blog post, we'll provide an overview of some of the key skills that are often required for app developers. Whether you're just starting out or looking to enhance your existing skills, read on to learn more about the essentials of app development.
The need for app developers in growing every year. Ace the basics and watch your career fly.
#1 Code in Multiple Languages on Different Platforms
Having the ability to write code in multiple languages is an invaluable skillset for those who work or aspire to work in the tech industry. This skill allows coders to easily adapt to any platform they are working on, opening up new career opportunities. Some popular languages for app development include Kotlin (IMO) and Swift. Certifications in these languages, which can be obtained from platforms such as Udacity, Coursera, Apple Developer Certification, and Google Developers Certification, can also improve job prospects.
Once you have a good grasp of the basics, it takes hard work and dedication, but learning new coding languages becomes much easier. Regardless of the language chosen, the ability to code in multiple languages provides a better long-term outlook. Moreover, being familiar and comfortable with various coding platforms such as BaaS, IDEs, and Version Control Systems, which vary in ease of use, versatility, and available tools, is an essential skill in today's tech-savvy world. Understanding their differences can help coders decide which platform best suits their needs. With practice and patience, learning to code on multiple platforms is an invaluable asset that can pay off down the line.
Be a real pro-programmer. Learn to code on different platforms.
#2 Work With a Team of Coders
Working with a team of coders can be an incredibly valuable experience. Not only will you have the chance to learn from experienced coders, but you'll also be able to pick up on coding best practices and troubleshooting techniques. Additionally, having the support of other people during the development process can help prevent potential roadblocks and make it easier to stay motivated and productive. With each member adding their unique skills, experiences, and insights, your mixed-disciplinary team can accomplish more than they ever could alone.
Most underrated skill: being easy to work with.
#3 Develop an App from Start to Finish
Developing an app can be an intimidating task, but with the right knowledge and a reliable process, anyone can take that idea they've been dreaming up and turn it into something real and useful. Many app developers find it helpful to learn the basics of coding, research their target audience, create wireframes to determine the flow of screens, and test various versions. Although there is no single right way to develop an app, getting familiar with some of the common practices like using APIs or looking into libraries that are available can streamline the programming process immensely. No matter where you are in your development journey – from conceptualising the perfect idea to designing a fully functional program – developing apps offers a great opportunity to exercise creativity and determination.
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
#4 Troubleshoot Errors and Bugs in Apps
Troubleshooting errors and bugs in an app can be daunting and confusing, especially when you’re already under pressure. Knowing the basics of how to troubleshoot mobile apps can help to make your life much easier. It involves being able to search for potential solutions, checking log files and understanding why a bug or error happened in the first place. Being able to diagnose and address app issues with some degree of confidence should boost your productivity, rather than wasting precious time trying to work out why something has gone wrong. If you become familiar with the troubleshooting process, it can save you a huge amount of stress in the long run, making for a more relaxed workflow and smoother operations overall.
Stressing at work 👎 Learning how to troubleshoot 👍
#5 Ability to Create User-friendly App Interfaces
Developing user-friendly app interfaces is critical to the overall user experience. Without a clear and intuitive user interface, users cannot properly use an app. That’s why it’s important to have an easy-to-use design from the start. There is a range of techniques app designers can use to ensure their designs meet the needs of all users, such as incorporating gestures, employing a minimalist design philosophy, and making sure all controls are clearly labelled. There are also techniques available to test usability and make sure the quality of the user interface is up to standards.
Bring your code to life by improving your UX/UI skills.
In conclusion, becoming a successful app developer requires a combination of technical expertise, creativity, and effective collaboration skills. From mastering multiple coding languages to developing user-friendly interfaces, there are several essential skills that every app developer must possess to succeed in this rapidly evolving industry. With a commitment to continual learning and a willingness to work alongside other talented developers, any aspiring app developer can hone their skills and achieve their goals in this exciting field. By focusing on developing these key skills, you can set yourself apart from the competition and build a successful career as an app developer.
