Programmer

A programmer or software developer is someone who programs computers, i.e. writes computer software. A computer programmer can refer to a specialist in one area of computer programming or to the general mass of programmers working for a software company who implement the bulk of the code in large scale software, whether it be for a large mainframe or a personal computer. Somebody who practices (or professes) a formal approach to programming may also be known as a software engineer or even software analyst.

Related Topics:
Software developer - Programs computers - Computer software - Software company - Mainframe - Personal computer - Software engineer

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ada Lovelace is considered history's first programmer. She was the first to express an algorithm intended for implementation on a computer, Charles Babbage's analytical engine, in October 1842.

Related Topics:
Ada Lovelace - Algorithm - Computer - Charles Babbage - Analytical engine - 1842

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Those proficient in computer programming skills may become famous, though this regard is normally limited to software engineering circles. Many of the most notable programmers are often labeled "hackers". Programmers often have or project an image of individualist geekdom, resistance to suits (referring to both business suits and "The Establishment"), controls and unionisation.

Related Topics:
Famous - Hacker - Individualist - Geek - Business suits - The Establishment - Unionisation

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Programmers come in all shapes and sizes. Professional programmers work in corporate IT departments, big companies or small service firms.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

According to the U.S. Department of Labor:

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

• Nearly half of all computer programmers held a bachelor's degree in 2002; about 1 in 5 held a graduate degree.
• Employment is expected to grow much more slowly than that of other computer specialists.
• Prospects should be best for college graduates with knowledge of a variety of programming languages and tools; those with less formal education or its equivalent in work experience should face strong competition for employment.

Recently, this sector has experienced significant downsizing in the US, while jobs are offshored to other areas where much lower salaries can be paid, such as India and China.

Related Topics:
US - Offshored - India - China

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

 
Programmer: See also ►