What does a Software Designer do?

A software designer is responsible for designing and implementing the proper utilization of software systems and programs for computers and computerized systems. Basically, a software designer needs to understand a need for a program, develop a solution and employ the methodology in a way that is accessible and user-ready. In order for the software design to be a success, the software architect must utilize both rudimentary and advanced computer development concepts, usually requiring the software engineer to be well-versed in general computer programming. These systems built by the designer can either be add-on programs for existing software or entirely new user tools for one type of solution.

The overall idea of a software designer's day-to-day work involves everything from low-level component processing to large-scale algorithm analysis. Basically, the job can range from making slight tweaks to existing programs, such as simply adding a new data field to established content, or require advanced research of whole industries, like determining a new way to track every airplane in the sky at a given time. As such, a software engineer is one of the most essential additions to any computer team.

General concepts used by software designers require many sophisticated theories of operation and technique. A software designer is required to find ways to reduce the amount of information needed in each step of human or computer interaction by creating some form of hierarchy. Essentially this results in a series of steps used through the process. In technical terms, this is referred to as abstraction and refinement.

The structure of software architecture is placed into a sophisticated data structure to allow for the best information exchange possible. Individual components of the software are divided into parts known as modules. These modules are then placed into distinct partitions, running into a hierarchy that gives programs overall structure ready for the user.

Things a software designer needs to consider when developing a program or utility include compatibility, maintenance, reliability, security and reusability. The software must be capable of interacting with the components available to the user and also function as a program able to be fixed when problems arise. It must also continually operate with limited problems, including a lack of feasible ways for nefarious activity to damage its functionality. Most companies hiring software designers are also heavily concerned with the time duration by which the programs will be used. Obviously, the longer a program's lifespan, the better the solution.