For recruiters without proper training, it is difficult to differentiate when hiring a software engineer vs. software developer. Within the IT industry, there are many differences between these two positions.
In the corporate world, understanding of the work of a software engineer and software developer can be described interchangeably. If you are seeking the tasks of a software engineer roles and responsibilities, you might be encountering a staff that is fit for either post.
Breaking the confusion
The potential uncertainty lies in several key areas. After the title is confirmed, the question follows as to who is responsible in code writing, who develops the codes and does it really matter. It is vital to identify what separates these two roles and see whether software engineers are ‘real’ engineers. Then ultimately, know how each functions.
The main difference between software engineer vs software developer starts with their specific job function. In some instances, a software engineer could be involved in software development while software developers are considered engineers.
Software engineering defined
Software engineering deals with the use of engineering processes to develop software. This involves scientific, disciplined, quantitative methods to create, operate, and maintain software or applying engineering principles to the creation of software. With all these, it simply means software engineering is not solely focused on coding. The computer programmer is someone who employs engineering principles in software development. Also, this implies that software engineers should have background knowledge about engineering and its association to software creation.
Software engineers take part in the software development life cycle by addressing the client’s needs with the application of appropriate technology solutions. Also, they systematically use methodologies to ensure specific functions. In the end, software engineering simply employs engineering concepts for software development.
At the same time, software developers are considered the driving force behind creating programs. They are tasked in handling the entire development process. They are those who collaborate with the client in creating a theoretical design. They work closely with computer programmers who develop the necessary code to operate the software smoothly. Computer programmers partner with software developers to test and fix issues together. Software developers are in-charge in project leadership and technical guidance in every phase of the software development life cycle.
Software engineer roles and responsibilities
- Identify and analyze client demands.
- Evaluate current software programs and address areas for improvement.
- Check the programming needs of the end user.
- Coordinate with computer programmers during program code writing.
- Test the code, provide comments, and see if it works properly.
- Verify what software will be developed.
- Develop system design.
- Assigned in prototyping.
- Handle developing software and coding task.
- Communicate with purchasers.
- Undertake to troubleshoot issues as needed.
- Manage deployment.
- Conduct follow-ups.
- In-charge of general monitoring of hardware and networking part.
- Provide demonstrations.
- Acts in managing testing, team leading, etc.
- Basically, identifies every factor needed in software process and related activities.
