The tasks of the Applications Designer-Developer
The Applications Designer-Developer designs and develops software to meet the needs of companies and users.
Needs analysis
The designer-developer begins by studying and analysing the needs of the customer or users. They need to understand how the business operates and identify the essential functions of the application.
Technical design
Once the requirements have been clarified, the application architecture is developed. This includes designing the databases, selecting the appropriate technologies and writing the technical specifications.
Development and programming
He or she is responsible for programming using programming languages and frameworks such as Java / Spring, Python, or Node.js / JavaScript. They also carry out tests to ensure that the software functions correctly and without bugs.
Maintenance and upgrading
The work doesn’t stop when the application is delivered. The designer-developer must provide maintenance to correct bugs and develop the software in line with new requirements or technologies.
The skills required
An application designer-developer needs to have a high level of technical expertise, as well as the communication skills needed to understand customer expectations. They must be able to work as part of a team, while at the same time being capable of solving problems independently:
- Mastery of programming languages: ability to code in several languages.
- Knowledge of software architecture: the ability to design robust, scalable systems.
- Project management skills: knowing how to organise your work and meet deadlines, which can sometimes be tight.
- Problem-solving skills: ability to diagnose and correct complex bugs.
The development work environment
Application designers and developers generally work in different types of environment:
- In a digital services company (ESN) for customer assignments.
- In a large company within the Information Systems Department (ISD).
- On a freelance basis, offering their services to various companies.
Career development
An application designer-developer can progress to a number of roles depending on their skills and aspirations. After a few years’ experience, they may become lead developers, where they manage a team of developers and supervise projects.
With a more global vision, they can also aim for positions as technical project managers, where they will manage large-scale projects or teams.
Average salary for application developers
The salary of an application designer and developer varies according to experience:
- Junior: at the start of their career, they can expect to earn between €30,000 and €35,000 gross per year.
- Experienced: with a few years’ experience, their salary is generally between €35,000 and €45,000 gross per year.
- Senior: for the most experienced, salary can reach €45,000 to €55,000 gross per year.
Become an applications developer
Are you interested in this profession? Our ESEO school offers you Professional Bachelors (RNCP) tailored to becoming an applications designer-developer.