By Temilade Aderiye
The earliest use of electronic digital computers in Nigeria was in 1963 when the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) set up the African Education Centre at the University of Ibadan (UI Computing Center). In connection with the analysis of the national census of 1962/1963. Between 1963 and 1973, Nigeria had about 20-25 computers, and six of them were associated with multinational companies. There were about seventy computer installations in Nigeria by 1977. This same year, only three of these multinational computer vendors were in Nigeria. These were IBM, NCR, and JCL and they all mostly dealt with mainframes and minicomputers. To ensure a more indigenous integration of Nigerians in the budding computer business, the government established the indigenization decree. However, Nigeria has come a long way from the first recorded use of digital computers and the establishment of computer centers to the widespread use of computers. Nowadays, entrepreneurial software development training centers are emerging cropping up across the country, especially in Lagos. Investments made by tech giants in the tech space have encouraged the establishment of software development hubs across the country. Nearly every household has a functioning computer system. People no longer have to go to cafes to get their work done as everyone can do this from the comfort of their homes. Around the world, the software development industry is booming, and Nigeria is no different.
However, the software development industry in Nigeria still faces the challenge of a talent deficit. As more Nigerians are becoming tech-inclined, there has been a high rate of migration to international companies that want to hire the services of software engineers. This has led to the reduction of available tech talents in the country. Asides from the advantage of more career opportunities, some Nigerians migrate to other countries to get trained and gain more in-depth knowledge about software development. This habit would not benefit Nigeria’s economy in any way. Also, many foreign hirers are reluctant to hire software engineers from Nigeria because of the bad reputation the country has regarding the online space (i.e., fraud schemes such as 419, Naija Prince, etc.) They are wary of getting scammed or getting their work undone.
This leads to the need to train more talents in software development. More training centers have to be established in Nigeria to get more interested people trained and certified in software development. This would not only ensure the provision of more jobs in Nigeria, but it will also boost the economy. Some companies such as DelonApps offer training on software development at an affordable rate. At the Delon Academy, interested would-be software engineers can choose between regular and weekend courses as well. Some companies also provide programs where candidates can learn and work simultaneously. This training will level the playing ground between Nigeria and other countries in the tech space.
Software development is the process that is involved in creating and maintaining applications and other software components. These processes include ideating, specifying, designing, programming, documenting, testing, and bug-fixing. It involves all the processes in software development. The word “software” itself refers to the commands used to instruct a computer to carry out specific tasks. Someone who develops software is known as a software developer or software engineer.
The terms, software engineers and software developers are often used interchangeably as they both carry out many of the same tasks and share many of the same abilities. However, compared to software engineers, software developers frequently operate on a smaller scale and specialize in certain fields, such as the internet of things or mobile applications. While on the other hand, software engineers use a broad perspective that may encompass testing, scalability, and data analytics in addition to programming. Generally, though, these two terms can be used synonymously. Some trending software developer jobs include back-end developer, front-end developer, DevOps, etc.
Software Developer Jobs
1) Back-End developer
Back-end developers generally design, fix, and alter some elements of a software application. The back-end developer has to ensure that the software can effectively deliver the client’s requests. These professionals also maintain APIs, oversee critical databases, and conduct testing. Thus, a good back-end developer must know how to defend software against cybercrime threats. They help to support a project’s user interface and functionality.
They work with other team members to ensure that all pending projects are completed while also meeting set deadlines. A backend developer’s job deals with scripting, website architecture, and writing codes that ensure the effective transfer of data between the website’s database and the user’s browser. Some necessary skills for a back-end engineer include PHP, Java, HTML, JavaScript, and CSS.
2) Front-End developer
A front-end developer has the duty of creating prototypes of web pages and various other features the developer is also in charge of testing the web pages to ensure that they work well. They also write code using JavaScript, CSS3, Java, HTML5, or Python to produce interfaces that are user interactive.
3) Full stack engineer
A full stack engineer works with both the back end and front-end of a website engineer. He works with both the front-end of a website and the back-end design of a website.
4) QA Engineer
QA stands for Quality Assurance (QA) and has to do with ensuring there are no mistakes in the manufactured product to be delivered to a client. A QA engineer is responsible for ensuring that the product meets the required standard and design specifications.
5) Mobile developer
Mobile developers work with mobile operating systems and the frameworks and environments that are used to develop software programs on these operating systems. They utilize software development skills such as Swift, Java, application programming interface, cross-platform mobile kit, and web development language. They write codes for Android, Windows, and iOS applications.
Processes Involved in Software Development
Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), also known as the software development process, is the process taken to create products that meet all the required specifications, standards, and users’ requirements. These processes include:
1) Planning
Proper planning is one of the most fundamental steps in software development. Most clients generally tend to have an abstract notion of what they want but not what the software would be able to do. Analysis of requirements is used to draft the fundamental design approach to the client’s need and carry out a feasibility study of the software. A technical feasibility study can be conducted to define the different technical approaches which can be used to successfully deploy the software with as little risk as possible. Planning for quality assurance requirements and identification of the risk associated with the design process is done during this first planning stage
2) Defining Requirements
After the analysis of requirements in this first planning stage, the next step in the software development life cycle process is to define and document the requirements of the software and then get them approved by the customer or market analysts this stage in the software development process is done via a software requirement specification document SRS includes all the requirements for the software that is to be designed and developed throughout the lifecycle of the project.
3) Designing the Software
The reference point for software engineers to build the best design for the software being developed is the SRS document. Using the software requirements which are specified in the software requirement specification (SRS) document, developers then propose (more than) one design structure for the software, and these structures are documented in the Design Document Specification (DDS).
4) Developing the Software
Software development is that part of the software development process we are software engineers programmed the code for the software and then build the software. If the software design is properly structured, it will be possible to generate codes without expending too much time and effort. Codes are generated by software engineers using high-level languages such as C, Pascal, C++, and PHP. The type of software that is being developed determines the programming language used by software developers.
5) Software Testing
Software testing is an important process in all the stages of software development. After developing software, engineers conduct a test whereby the defects or mistakes in the software which has been built at detected, fixed, and then the software is retested. Testing the software at this stage gives the developer an unbiased and objective view of the software. Software testing can be explained as the process of verifying and validating a software application until it meets the standard of quality defined in the software requirement specification.
6) Software Deployment and Maintenance
After the software has been tested, the software is then deployed and approved for release in the appropriate market environment. It may be released and stages depending on the company’s marketing strategy. The software is also maintained by ensuring that it continues to operate well, and it can be further enhanced by updating the software to tackle recently discovered errors or faults. When the software is being deployed into the market space, it is important to carry out software training and support or create a manual to ensure that the software is correctly used by the end user.
Why The Software Development Industry Is Booming
1) High Demand for Back-End Developers
Many Nigerian software development companies require the services of backend developers to achieve company growth. Recent reports indicate that almost 30% of the jobs on an engineering employment platform requested are for back-end engineers. Front-end developers on the other hand made up about 23% of this demand. Also, full-stack and mobile developers each made up about 20% of this data. This high demand for back-end developers in recent times is one of the reasons why the software development industry is booming.
2) Large DevOps Community
The large DevOps community in Nigeria is also contributing to the growth of the software development industry. Notably, DevOps engineers can get together, share their experiences, and find mentors at meetups hosted by some online groups. The country can move forward with its solutions more quickly because the DevOps methodology places an emphasis on automation and collaboration. Automation tools such as JFrog Pipelines are ideal for supporting startup developers in the software development process as their user base expands. In a nutshell, Nigeria’s software development industry is expanding as a result of the large DevOps community.
3) Growing Freelance Market
Some freelance platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer.io, Fiverr, etc. allow developers to create freelance profiles. These platforms allow people to create freelance profiles where they can upload their past employment, major projects (such as design, application testing, and back-end development), and their area of expertise (such as JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and Node.js). Business owners then use all the information provided to hire the right freelancer for their business. Innovations are advancing more quickly throughout the country due to the availability of greater access to some software.
4) The Rise of Learning Platforms
There has been the establishment of many learning platforms that offer training to interested people. A large number of these platforms provide programming lessons online while other organizations offer hands-on training sessions and meetups. For example, DelonApps offers software development training in Back-End Development, Front-End Development, Android Development, IOS Development, DevOps, And Data Science, and trainees can select between weekday and weekend courses.
5) Overcoming Challenges
The software industry in Nigerians is booming as more Nigerians are overcoming their stereotyping biases. An experienced developer in Nigeria reports that some international clients are often unfamiliar with the fast-paced growth of Nigeria’s tech space. Thus, they are stereotypical when it comes to making important employment decisions. However, nowadays, major tech companies are beginning to spotlight the country’s achievements in the software industry. For example, GitHub released a report identifying Nigeria as the fourth-largest growing developer community worldwide. Also, major giants in the tech space have begun making investments in some software development companies in Nigeria. Despite the challenges Nigerians face due to global bias, the tides are turning as the skills of the country’s developers are starting to boost the industry’s growth.
How To Become a Software Engineer
1) Study Computer Science or Related Course
This is one of the more common ways to be trained as a software developer in Nigeria. Many people decide on a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, or Information Technology because it allows them to study the theoretical side of computer scientific disciplines and assists them in understanding the basics of software engineering. Some of the courses learned include web technologies, database systems, computer networks, programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and mathematics. These courses will help upcoming developers to completely understand contemporary software development techniques. Many hiring companies mandate a four-year bachelor’s degree program in Computer Science as a requirement for recruiting software developers. However, it would be unwise to depend only on getting a degree in Computer Science because often it is the practical experience one has that determines whether one would get hired or not.
2) Learn Programming Languages
Programming languages are the computer equivalent of human language which are used to tell the computer what to do in the language that the computer understands. A software developer’s major responsibility is to give the computer commands using these programming languages. Thus, it is necessary to not only have a degree in Computer Science or other related fields, but it is also important to choose a programming language that best fulfills your needs and take time to learn it well. Some of these programming languages include Java, MS SQL, Azure, Python, Swift, and JavaScript. With time, fluency in more than one of these programming languages can be achieved. Learn the language’s syntax, practice writing computer programs, and learn the unique qualities associated with the language you have chosen. These programming languages can be be learnt in the various software development training centers in Nigeria.
3) Figure out your end goals
Having had the necessary knowledge to start working as a software developer, the next step is to outline your end goals. Ask yourself where you would like to work, how you would like to work (remote, or onsite), and how much your fees would be. Some industries that software developers’ services are needed include financial institutions, software publishers, engineering or manufacturing industries, and insurance providers. Having a clear view of what you want in your career will help you achieve your goals faster.
4) Become Conversant with Algorithms and Data Structures
A data structure is a way of processing, storing, organizing, and retrieving data while an algorithm is a set of clearly defined instructions that can be used to solve particular problems. Software developers must be familiar with data structures and algorithms because they help software engineers quickly solve problems with less use of the computer’s memory. A software engineer’s responsibility is to provide the best solution to a specific problem while taking note of time restrictions and memory use.
5) Practice
Whether the knowledge of software development was gained through formal schooling or self-taught, it is necessary to put whatever has been learned into practice. As the saying goes, “practice makes perfect,” thus putting the knowledge acquired will help better the software developer’s dexterity in utilizing programming languages. This skill set can then be used in various contexts such as DevOps engineering, front-end development, data science, and so on.
6) Make a portfolio
A portfolio displays one’s previous works. Having a portfolio shows prospective clients the software engineer has actual, theoretical knowledge of the skills, listed on the CV or resume. An ideal portfolio should contain the following details short biography, contact information, skills, link to resume, awards (if any), and professional or personal projects. Include any new experience in the portfolio. For the sake of accuracy and interactivity, it is advisable to make use of portfolio design websites such as Wix, Journopolio, and Clippings.me.
7) Certify your skills
For people without any actual job experience in software development, it is advisable to take some certified courses which offer certificates when completed. The certifications obtained will help potential clients verify the skillset, capabilities, and competence level of the prospective employee. Certifications can be gotten in data management, cloud computing, or data security.
Tools Used by Software Developers
1) GitHub
GitHub is a website hosting service that offers a location for a global developer community to exchange, enhance, and discuss software projects. GitHub is a version control and software development hosting service with a graphical interface and beneficial collaboration and project management functionalities. GitHub is said to have the world’s largest developer community, it is frequently used for issue tracking and code review.
2) LeanKit
A cloud-based visual management program that is considered one of the most user-friendly software products available for agile teams. With custom board templates, advanced Kanban capabilities, and backlog management, it can assist a team of software developers to work faster and more effectively.
3) Codenvy
Codenvy is a cloud-based integrated programming environment that is used for developing apps and debugging. It is an open-source workspace server that serves as a platform for teams can use to develop remotely. Its best qualities include version control, APIs and extensions, and resource limits.
4) CodeClimate
CodeClimate is another useful software development tool. It is an automated, open-source tool used by software developers for code analysis or review. It assists in ensuring code quality by grading apps based on complexity, style, test coverage, and more. CodeClimate provides the software developer with valuable insight into the starting point for a software or code review. Other features of this tool include test coverage, team management, and data-based engineering.
5) Axosoft
Axosoft is one of the best tools for software development which is built on simple Scrum software. It is designed to assist engineering and development teams with issue tracking and project management. Axosoft is used by software developers because of its bug tracking, data visualization, and Scrum planning board.
6) Trello
This is a free app used for project management. It lets users make columns and place cards in them. These cards represent projects or tasks that need to be completed. Trello is an excellent way to organize personal workload, side projects, or things to be accomplished. Having an organized workflow can help a software developer be more productive. Jira is another more robust project management tool.
7) Sip
Sip is a simple tool used for selecting colours for front-end development. Any colour can be chosen in various formats (such as RGB and hex) from the device’s screen.
8) Evernote
This is a virtual notebook that can be used by software developers to keep track of vital information which can be forgotten due to work overload. It serves as an “external brain” where details such as courses, links, keyboard shortcuts, and software requirements can be posted for safekeeping. It can also include details such as diagrams of how the product being worked on fits, screencasts, or tech talks to be watched later, commands that can be easily forgotten, and so on.
9) CodeWars
This tool provides hundreds of small programming challenges which are ranked by difficulty and several programming languages. These challenges can help the software developer improve or increase his software development knowledge of the fundamentals of programming. CodeWars also exposes software engineers to other programming languages asides from the one(s) they are familiar with. After solutions to challenges have been submitted, CodeWars also offers highly rated solutions to the submitted challenges.
10) Apache NetBeans
This is a popular, open-source, and free Integrated Development Environment (IDE). It is one of the best software development tools that allow the development of mobile, desktop, and web applications. It supports fast and smart code editing, helps to write bug-free codes, and offers support for C, C++, and PHP software developers.
Considering the various career benefits to be found in the software development industry, there is a need for more people to become involved in this industry. This is why DelonApps, the leading IT recruitment company in Nigeria is organizing a software development training program for interested participants. The company is the #1 recruiter of software engineers for companies within Nigeria and other countries such as Korea, America, and Europe. Another benefit to be obtained from the training asides from knowledge gained is job placement or job opportunities. A subsidiary of the company, jobs.delon.ng, is the leading job site in Nigeria and the site boasts over 600,000 jobs in various sectors including software development. The software development industry in Nigeria is booming and could help to boost the county’s economy if resources are properly harnessed.
