Computer Applications Programmer

Also known as:

Applications Programmer
Programmer, Computer Applications
Software Developer

Introduction

Computer applications programmers write and test computer programs that instruct computers to carry out specific tasks. Many programmers adapt existing programs to suit their clients' needs.

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Work Activities

Applications programmers write programs that instruct a computer to perform tasks such as controlling company stock or updating staff records. They might write new programs or adapt existing ones, including off-the-shelf computer packages, to meet the needs of an individual firm.

They might maintain and update one program or, particularly in large organisations, a number (suite) of programs. They have to solve problems that individual users have, and adapt the program to suit changes in the way users work.

When they write a new program application, programmers follow a specification, or spec, provided by a systems analyst. The spec describes what the program should do. It may be very precise, in which case the programmer has to follow it exactly, or it may be quite loose, which allows the programmer to be more creative. Increasingly, analyst programmers or developers carry out the whole process of needs analysis, system design and development.

Each spec shows a series of steps, which the programmer translates into computer language. Once programmers have developed a new program, they have to check it very carefully for faults (bugs) and test it thoroughly before it is ready for the user. They evaluate the program and write user manuals.

Applications programmers often work in teams, with each person contributing to the program or suite of programs.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

You must have IT and programming skills. You will need to have an analytical and logical approach to problem solving. Attention to detail is essential. You need to be patient, as an important part of the work is looking for faults in the program.

Programmers must enjoy working on their own. You must be able to concentrate for long periods of time. You need good communication and teamwork skills because much of the time you will be working on projects. Good written communication skills are essential for compiling reports and writing user-friendly manuals.

You must be able to work under pressure to meet deadlines. You need to keep up to date with new software and programming languages.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries for computer applications programmers vary depending on the range of their responsibilities and the size and type of company they work for.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Computer applications programmers earn in the range of £21,500 - £27,000 a year, rising to £33,500 - £43,000. Higher earners can make around £52,000 a year.

Salaries may include performance-related pay, profit sharing or company bonuses.

Computer applications programmers usually work 35-37 hours Monday to Friday, but might sometimes have to work late to meet deadlines.

Throughout the UK, applications programmers work for large firms and organisations, local authorities and central government, software houses and computer manufacturers.

Some experienced programmers work freelance - usually on short-term contracts. This work can be found through specialist IT recruitment agencies.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some new entrants gain skills in computer helpdesk or similar work before moving on to become applications programmers.

If you are a graduate with a non-computing degree, some employers might still consider you. However, taking a one-year information technology postgraduate conversion course will improve your chances.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course, eg, Access to IT/Computing, could be the way in. These courses are designed for people who have not followed the usual routes into higher education. No formal qualifications are usually needed, but you should check this with individual colleges.

Another option would be to take a Higher National Certificate (HNC) in computing part-time, by day or evening study.

Or you could take short intensive courses in specific computing languages with private, accredited, IT training providers. These can help you develop the portfolio of technical skills employers need. Courses are run by flexible, evening, weekend or part-time day study.

Distance learning courses include the Open University degree in Computing and Mathematical Sciences, and its Diploma in Computing.

Some educational institutions run qualifications by distance or online learning, like the degree in Computing and Information Systems from the University of London External Programme.

Computeach runs courses by distance learning.

Sponsorship for degree-level study of computing might be available through some of the larger IT companies.

• 7% of people in occupations such as computer applications programmer are self-employed.
• 3% work part-time.
• 21% have flexible hours.
• 4% of employees work on a temporary basis.

Self-employment is usually an option only for experienced programmers.

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New Developments

This occupation may involve homeworking.  Find out more about Working from home.