13 Types of Software Development

In our modern world, technology is constantly evolving and software development is vital to our digital existence. It powers the apps we use on our phones, the websites we browse, and even the intelligence in our cars.

In fact, according to a recent study, the global number of software developers is expected to grow to over 45 million by 2030.

However, it’s important to note that the software used in a Tesla car for autonomous driving is different from the software used for Netflix streaming. Furthermore, the software in our smartphones, smart fridges, and computers is incredibly diverse.

Software development is an umbrella term encompassing various specializations, each with its specific programming language and tools. Each developer, based on their inclination and liking, chooses one area to specialize in.

For example, when creating application software, the front-end developer is responsible for designing the interactive interfaces, while the back-end developer designs the data handling using servers and databases. There are various types of software development, each with its own set of responsibilities.

This article will introduce the types of software development and explain the languages and tools used in everyday projects.

What Is Software Development?

Software development is the process of creating, designing, deploying, and supporting software. From creating intuitive user interfaces for applications to designing complex and standalone embedded systems for digital cameras and wristwatches, everything comes under the spectrum of software development.

Here’s a preview of the 15 types of software development:

Front-End Development
Back-End Development
Full Stack Development
Web Application Development
Mobile Application Development
Desktop Software Development
Video Game Development
API Development
Software Tool Development
Security Software Development
Cloud Computing Development
Wearable Software Development
Embedded Systems Development

1. Front-End Development

Front-end development is like the face of software that represents the visual part of software that users interact with, such as programs, websites, or apps. To make it more simple, front-end development is like a restaurant menu. It is how the menu looks, with pictures and descriptions, that makes it easy for you to choose your favorite dish.

So, when we visit a website or use an app, the front end or the user interface is what we see and interact with. Whatever we click, scroll, or type on our computer or phone, it is possible because of an interactive and intuitive front end. Front-end developers create the buttons we click, the text boxes we type in, and the cool stuff we see on a website or app.

They use programming languages like JavaScript, CSS, and HTML to make everything look good and work smoothly, especially for websites. However, when it comes to mobile apps, there are different tools used to achieve the same goal. Front-end development is crucial for all types of software, including those on computers, phones, and even refrigerators, as it is responsible for creating an intuitive user interface.

2. Back-End Development

Backend development is like the engine of a car. It is not visible, but it powers the car’s functionality. For instance, when you book a flight online, the backend manages the ticketing process, checks seat availability, and communicates with payment systems to finalize your booking.

The back end of software takes care of important tasks such as managing servers, databases, and APIs (application programming interfaces) that help the software function properly. Most users are unaware of what goes on behind the scenes as they only interact with the front end of the software, which simplifies everything for them. Back-end development involves the use of different programming languages like Ruby, Python, and Java.

3. Full Stack Development

Full Stack Development refers to the process of developing both the front-end (client-side) and the back-end (server-side) parts of a web application. A Full Stack Developer has expertise in both areas and is capable of building a complete web application from start to finish.

For instance, when we access a WordPress website, what we see is just the tip of the iceberg. Behind every click, hover, or swipe, complex machinery springs into action. The server carefully fetches the desired web pages, while our browsers skillfully interpret that code to display a visually appealing and interactive interface on our screens.

In full-stack development, multiple frameworks and languages are used by developers. For the front end, they may employ HTML, CSS, JavaScript, or TypeScript. On the back end, they might opt for Node.js, Python, or Java. In addition, they rely on frameworks such as React.js or Django to increase their productivity.

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4. Web Application Development

Web applications, known as web apps, are special types of programs we can use through the internet browser of our smartphones, computers, or tablets. Users who access web apps just require an internet connection and a browser, there is no need for any downloads. Let’s take the example of Gmail. We can use it directly on our mobile or laptop browser without the need to download its app. We can read and send emails without downloading anything.

Web apps are dynamic. They change based on our actions. If we click a link or type something in a search box on a web app like Google Maps, the updates happen right before our eyes. Businesses find web app development invaluable as it enables them to showcase and sell their goods and products, engage users, and gain insights into user preferences.

So, the next time you shop online or use web applications, remember that they are likely powered by a combination of programming languages, such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, which make all these interactions possible.

5. Mobile Application Development

Mobile Application Development is the process of making apps specially designed for smartphones and tablets. There are three main ways to do mobile development.

Firstly, there are native apps, that are tailor-made for one specific platform, like iOS or Android, using that specific platform’s languages and tools.

Secondly, there are hybrid apps. The hybrid apps are like chameleons. They usually start as web apps (which are like regular websites) and then transform into native apps for different platforms.

Lastly, there are web apps, which are like mini-websites that look and act like native apps but are accessible through a web browser.

For example, developing a mobile fitness app involves creating functions like tracking physical activities, planning meals, and setting fitness goals. Developers must ensure that the app runs smoothly on different devices and operating systems.

To do this, mobile developers use various tools and languages like Swift for Apple apps, Kotlin for Android, Flutter for creating iOS and Android apps from the same codebase, and React Native for building apps that work across platforms.

6. Desktop Software Development

Desktop Software Development involves creating applications specifically to run on desktops and laptops. These applications work with operating systems like Windows, macOS, or Linux. The question that lingers around is why desktop software is still essential when we have mobile and web apps.

Well, desktop apps have their own unique strengths. They can tap into the full potential of the underlying OS and tap into its high-speed processor and large storage. Additionally, they offer a user interface that’s often more advanced.

Let us take video editing software as an example. This kind of application thrives on desktops. It needs the desktop’s processing power and storage to handle complex video editing tasks whereas the high-definition editing on our smartphone can be quite challenging.

Desktop developers use various programming languages like C#, Java, Python, C++, and tools like the .NET framework and Electron to create strong applications.

7. Video Game Development

Video game development is an interesting part of software creation. To develop a video game, it may take anywhere from a few months to several years to create. It all depends on the complexity of the game. Video games are interactive software for computers, consoles, and more recently, mobile devices, where visual feedback is critical to the user experience.

Popular Madden football and Call of Duty games are some examples. They are huge hits on gaming consoles. Then there are games like Pokémon GO and Among Us that can be played on the phone. The gaming industry has been booming since the very beginning. New devices like the Nintendo Switch just make it even stronger.

Tools like Unity and languages like C# are some common things used by video game developers. These are the building blocks that bring video games to life, letting us enjoy virtual worlds, solve puzzles, and embark on epic adventures.

8. API Development

API Development, or Application Programming Interface Development, is like building a bridge that lets different software programs interact with each other and share information.

For example, the weather app on our phone doesn’t create its own weather data, it actually gets the latest updates from a weather website.

How does that work? When we open our weather app and ask for the forecast, first it sends a request to the weather website’s API (the bridge). The API understands the request and sends back the weather information the app needs. Then, the app displays that data for us to see.

APIs make it easier for apps to seamlessly work together. They save developers a lot of time because they don’t have to reinvent something every time they need a new feature. Instead, they can use APIs to add ready-made tools and information to their apps.

This makes our weather app more accurate and helps it show the latest weather conditions without any extra effort from the app developer. So, API development is like building the secret language that apps use to give a better experience. Programming languages commonly used to create APIs include Python, JavaScript (Node.js), Ruby, Java, and PHP.

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9. Software Tools Development

In the world of software development, creating software tools means making special programs that help developers do their work better and smartly. These tools can be simple, like help for coding, or really complex, like a super toolbox for building software.

To understand it better, imagine a carpenter who wants to build a beautiful wooden chair. To make the chair, the carpenter needs some essential tools, like a saw, a hammer, and a ruler. These tools make the carpenter’s job easier and help to create a sturdy, comfortable chair.

Same way, software developers need their tools. One of the big tools they use is called an Integrated Development Environment (IDE). It’s like a digital workshop packed with all the useful stuff.

Inside the IDE, there’s a code editor (like a text editor), a builder (for putting all the code together), and a debugger (for finding and fixing mistakes).

Developers can make these tools using different programming languages, like Python, Java, or C++. It is like choosing the right wood for the chair. Some popular software toolkits include Eclipse and Visual Studio. So, software tools are like a carpenter’s trusty toolbox, helping developers craft their digital creations with ease.

10. Security Software Development

Security software development is all about creating programs that keep our computers and networks safe from threats and attacks. They are like digital bodyguards for our devices and data.

For example, an antivirus acts as a defender for the computer. This defender’s job is to scan our computer and find any sneaky villains (malicious software) that might be trying to harm it. Developers use programming languages like C, C++, Python, and JavaScript to build these shields.

They also have tools like Metasploit and Wireshark, which are like secret spy gadgets. Metasploit helps them find weaknesses in computer systems, and Wireshark lets them see what’s happening on a network to catch any suspicious activity.

In a nutshell, security software development is like making sure your digital world stays safe and sound from online villains.

11. Cloud Computing Development

Cloud computing development is like building apps and software that are not kept on our computer’s hard drive but are stored on the cloud instead. Think of traditional software as files on our computer, and cloud computing as apps on the internet. With cloud computing, we can use these apps wherever we are, but the programs aren’t stored on our devices. They are stored on a distant computer connected to the internet.

For example, take Dropbox and Google Drive. We don’t store our files on our computers, rather we store them on the internet with cloud services. When we need them, we access them through the internet.

For instance, consider Zoom for video calls, sessions can be recorded and stored on the cloud for everyone to view later.

Therefore, the significance of cloud applications lies in their ability to provide accessible and user-friendly software solutions through the Internet, ensuring that our preferred applications are readily accessible regardless of our location.

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12. Wearables Software Development

With the popularity of wearable gadgets like smart watches and glasses, wearable software development is an emerging practice in software development. Smartwatches are not just about checking the time or counting our steps; they can do many things like messaging on social media, tracking our health data, being more productive, playing games, and even receiving calls.

When it comes to building software for wearables, it differs for each specific brand. Take the Apple Watch, for example. If you want to create a feature for it, you need to know how to code using Swift.

But it’s not just Apple, there’s Samsung Galaxy, the Fitbit Sense, and more, each having its own specifications. Some of them use web apps, while others need special native languages like C, Tizen, and .NET, and also JavaScript.

13. Embedded Systems Development

Embedded Systems Development is teaching a computer to do one specific job really well, and you can find these smart computers in all sorts of things, like digital cameras or airplanes. They are like the secret brains that make these gadgets work smoothly.

For example, in digital cameras, when you click to capture a beautiful moment, embedded systems are at play. They handle everything, from taking the picture to making it look stunning with extra features and tools and even letting us control the camera settings. It’s like having a tiny but super-smart photographer inside our camera with all those features.

Tech side of things, developers in this field usually use languages like C and C++. These are like the secret codes that make the embedded systems understand what to do. They also use RTOS (real-time operating system), which is like a special boss that keeps everything running on time. And the ARM (Advanced RISC Machine). architecture is like the blueprint that many embedded systems follow, making them work efficiently.

So, embedded systems are like the hidden heroes in your gadgets, making sure they work flawlessly and make your life easier, one click at a time.

Conclusion

Understanding these various types of software development can bridge the gap between our business goals and our grasp of software development. Just like when starting a new business, research is key. Now that we have a clearer picture of software development and its different branches, the next step is to hire the right developers.

This choice is crucial in bringing your software ideas to life, whether it’s building a mobile app, creating a website, or any other type of development.

Ellow’s global talent pool of 25,000+ vetted developers will give you access to a diverse range of skills and expertise to meet your specific project needs and drive innovation in your organization.

Abhishek Ghosh

Experienced B2B Content Marketer, Writer, Editor, and Strategist. He is from an engineering background who now loves to play around with words. He is an SEO and a social media enthusiast.

Abhishek Ghosh

Experienced B2B Content Marketer, Writer, Editor, and Strategist. He is from an engineering background who now loves to play around with words. He is an SEO and a social media enthusiast.