ST: Computer Industry Careers

Computer Programming

By simplest definition, computer programmers write computer code; that is, they write the detailed instructions (programs) that tell the computer what to do to perform a certain function. Programmers write programs according to the specifications determined by systems analysts. Today, many programmers use CASE (Computer Assisted Software Engineering) tools to automate much of the coding process. And programmers often do much more than code. The job of programmer has come to include the kind of problem-solving formerly done by systems analysts.

The programming process includes:
Coding: After the design process is complete, it is the job of the programmer to convert that design into step-by-step instructions according to the particular programming language in use. Coding is a precise process. Even small errors in coding (widely known as "bugs") can create big problems when the program is compiled and run.
Compiling: In the case of most computer languages, before the program can be run it must be compiled. A compiler is the computer program that converts high-level code (such as C or COBOL) into code the computer can use (binary). If the code contains severe (or fatal) errors, the program will fail to compile, and the compiler will spit out an error report telling the programmer where the errors are in the program.
Debugging: The programmer must find and correct all the errors in the code so that the program can be compiled and run.
Testing: Once the program is sufficiently error-free to compile, the programmer can then run the program with test data. Through this process, the programmer will find other errors to correct (further debugging ensues).
Maintenance: Even after a program is clean enough to release to the public, bugs and other problems may crop up. Programmers fix these problems throughout the life of the program, often resulting in updated releases of the program to registered users.

Areas of specialty

Application (or Development) programmers
Write original programs which allow the computer to perform certain functions. Typical applications for personal computers are spreadsheet, word processing, and game programs. Applications programmers write code for all types of systems from PCs to mainframes and covering all user environments from the home to business and industry. Different programming languages are used depending on the purpose of the program. Note: C/C++ are the hot programming languages right now, widely used for both scientific, business, and PC (microcomputers) applications. Fortran and COBOL are still used, but they're on the way out.

Systems programmers
Create computer operating systems (rather than applications). Systems programming requires extensive knowledge of computer architecture (specific to the particular computer under design), and is more technically demanding than general programming.

Maintenance programmers
Adapt, customize, or "fix" large programs (for instance, large commercial applications such as payroll or inventory control) that were written by other programmers. These programmers often work in the data processing departments of large organizations such as banks, insurance companies or schools.

Language-specific programmers
Specialize in one of the hundreds of computer languages, particularly those less commonly used.
Function-specific programmers: Specialize in one kind of application; for instance, database, network, or security systems programmers.

Education and training for computer programmers usually include a B. A. or B. S. in Computer Science or Information Systems. These degrees often provide necessary training, but a degree is not absolutely required. In some cases, a 2 year AA degree is sufficient for entry level. The average salary for Computer Programmers is $15,000 to $75,000 per year. Experience counts!

Some useful links for more programming information include:

Extensive career information
Programming Jobs
Programming.com