The Ultimate Guide to Developing Software From Scratch

Have you ever considered how skilled software developers do their jobs? We live in a world run by computer programs and phone applications, with the average person spending hours a day on their devices. 

The work of an experienced software engineer has never been more important, though this work is still something the average person tends not to understand. What really goes into developing software or creating an app? What is the process like when ones goes from nothing to a finished application? 

If you’re new to the process, there’s a lot to get familiar with. Read on and we’ll walk you through what you need to know about developing software.

It’s About Learning the Language

Have you taken the time to teach yourself another language? Maybe you spent a summer studying French, or perhaps you’ve mastered Spanish in your elementary education. Getting in a place where one can create software requires a similar type of language learning.

However, when we think about application design, we’re talking about programming language. It’s essential that anyone hoping to become a successful software designer does so by developing proper programming langue expertise.

Knowing this language will be essential for turning abstract ideas into actual, explorable objects and experiences. 

Popular Programming Langues 

There are a wide number of different programming languages out there. However, there are a few that many find to be the most useful when it comes to app development.

These include C and C++, two of the oldest but most reliable forms of programming language. C is the original programming language and often provides the basis for most modern forms of programming today. C++ is the most popular coding language in the world. 

C++ is used in programs as large as Chrome or Firefox, Photoshop to the Apple App Store. It provides the basis for most of the applications we use on a daily basis. If you’re looking to teach yourself a new programming language, this might be the one to go with.

Also popular and worth looking into? Java. Java was a progression of the C-style programming language but is often used when working across various systems. Many video games are programmed off of Java, for example.

It can take a very long time to get familiar enough with programming languages to actually do some proper coding and design. That’s why many with hopes of creating software hire a coder to do this part of the work.

Designing a Program From Scratch

Once you’re well-trained in coding, or have someone on your team who is, what is the next step to proper application development? As any good software developer will tell you, it’s looking into your idea and thinking of how it can best be turned into a functioning application.

You’ll want to create a detailed document that outlines your software idea. Don’t skip any details and really try to paint a full picture of what this kind of program could look like. 

Show it to friends and family and see what kind of questions they have. You want to workshop the idea as much as possible on paper and in concept. This will save you money and time in the long run.

Once you feel confident about your software idea, it’s time to create a prototype. This is a basic version of the program in your head that will show off the functionality that you’re attempting to create. 

The final design elements and overall user experience of your application won’t be included in your prototype. Typically, the prototype will be the easiest and most basic version of your application idea.

Once you have a working model of your idea that you like, you can begin improving the look, feel, and functionality. However, it’s important to start with a prototype so that you can feel that the basic idea works.

Distributing New Software

After many weeks of work, you’ll have tested your software various times and pushed yourself towards crafting a great application. Now the time comes to figuring out how to get it out in the world. 

There is more than one way to go about this task, and it all depends on what your goals are and the work you are willing to put in. 

Many small developers release their software on a website that they run and operate themselves. On this website, they include a download link as well as screenshots and instructions. They let the word get out about the software, continue to update it, and gain an audience for the software online.

At a certain point, they may decide to start charging for the software downloads. This might be at different points for different applications. 

If you’re developing an application for a specific device or operating system, you might also attempt to sell it through digital stores associated with those products. 

For example, if you developed an iPhone app, it would make sense to try and get it listed in the Apple Store. These virtual stores will do the best job at connecting your creation with the customers and users that will enjoy it the most.

Basics of Developing Software

If you’re looking into developing software sometime in the near future, you’ll want to get familiar with all the basics of the process. Developing software requires a lot of know-how and hard work, but with the right attitude and approach, you can craft something great.

Need more project management help? Keep scrolling our blog for advice and information.