Programmer (Information Technology)

Summary

Programmers write, test and maintain computer programs to ensure that the computer application meets the needs of the users of the computer system.

Duties & Tasks

Programmers may perform the following tasks:

  • assist systems analysts and/or designers in researching and documenting computer users' requirements
  • analyse objectives and problems specified by analysts and/or designers
  • translate the solutions provided by systems designers into detailed program specifications
  • prepare documentation for other programmers, users of the system and other support services workers
  • undertake program design activities including definition of data and error message arrangements
  • supervise and report on the work of junior programmers
  • modify and document program code to correct errors or to enhance a program's capabilities
  • test the programs and make amendments
  • prepare reports on the status, operation and maintenance of system software for use by computer equipment suppliers, systems designers, other programmers and computer operators.

Specialisations

Analyst Programmer

An analyst programmer involved in higher-level design and analysis. This is the typical next step in the career of a programmer.

Communications Programmer (Systems)

A communications programmer (systems) is involved in activities associated with programming telecommunications infrastructures, for example stored program-controlled telephone exchanges. Communications programming (systems) has also been used to describe the work of network programmers. See the section below on network programmers.

Database Programmer (Systems)

A database programmer (systems) is involved in the development of programs to suit access and maintenance of databases. It is often considered to be part of the database design role. See the section on database design specialists under the Systems Designer (Information Technology) entry.

Information Technology Manager

An information technology manager plans, administers and reviews the acquisition, development, maintenance and use of computer and telecommunications systems within organisations. The IT manager is often the most senior person in the IT department and in large organisations may be called the IT Director or Chief Information Officer.

Multimedia Programmer

A multimedia programmer examines systems and applications programming issues involving the conversion between platforms and the initial writing of code for incorporation of text, graphics, video, animation, digital/analogue photographs, audio and 2D/3D modelling. Further specialisations are also possible, such as video systems development programming and PC-lead programming.

Network Programmer

A network programmer works with vendor networking languages to support the implementation or modification of network configurations. Ongoing education in vendor products and technical matters is important.

Systems Software Programmer

A systems software programmer works with the code used to define the particular operating system and sometimes also with low-level machine language. They write, maintain and update programs that control the overall functioning of computers.

Personal Requirements

  • good at technical activities
  • logical approach to the solution of problems
  • able to work independently or as part of a team
  • good communication skills
  • willing to continue to learn as technology changes.

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