Working as a software developer, you will be part of the exhilarating, ever changing information technology world. It will mean keeping ahead of constant technological change and developing programs in demand from the marketplace.

There are over 1,500 software developers (also called application programmers and systems programmers) working in Western Australia.

Over 90% of the software developers working in Western Australia work in the Perth metropolitan area.

Each year, approximately 800 training places are offered in degrees majoring in an information technology discipline. Not all of these course graduates will choose to work as software developers some, opting instead for careers in web design, IT management, Internet system administration or as an IT technician.

Software developers work with computers and coding systems to develop computer programs that will sell in the general marketplace. They also develop customised software products for particular clients.

The A-Z Of Software

First, developers produce what's known as a software specification that defines the functionality of the intended software and looks at the possible constraints on its operations. If the project is given the go ahead, they start their developmental work by translating an analyst's written set of requirements into a set of program specifications. They then convert these into programs that can be understood by a computer.

Paul Cheffers, an application consultant in Perth, says his job involves far more than just 'hacking away at a computer program until all hours of the morning'.

''The process of getting a program 'out the door', involves a whole host of tasks,'' says Paul.



''The head of the programming team will put together a presentation for a meeting with the marketing team. Endless meetings then take place where members of the development team are required to answer questions about their program. This is typically followed by numerous changes to the software developer's coding system.

''Your beautifully clean code becomes a spaghetti mess. Then there are long periods of testing and minute code changes that eventually make your program into a robust commercial product that the choosy, end user will pay for.''

The More Humane Side Of Software Development

Paul's own, Textteller Type program for deaf people, allows a deaf person to hear what someone is saying during a telephone conversation.

''Being able to help, where there is a real need for a software solution, is so rewarding,'' says Paul.



This is an occupation not just concerned with the technical processes of software development, but also with activities such as software project management and with the development of tools, methods and theories to support software production.

If you have an interest in and understanding of computing, are logical when problem solving, and able to work well independently as well as a member of a team, you should enjoy this type of work. Data entry skills are an advantage because you must document and record results.

Software developers work in an office environment, however, the highly networked nature of computing work makes it possible to work flexible hours and to be home based.



Department Head of Curtin University's Computing School, Geoff West, says that in the recent past there has been a large demand for people in the information technology industry.

He adds that the demand for software developers in Western Australia's mining industry has been consistently good. However, the demand for application developers in other industries is not as strong and therefore, employment opportunities are limited. Software application is largely carried out overseas and to some extent, interstate.

After several years of experience, software developers typically advance to designer and analyst roles, or may progress to management positions. Others move into areas such as marketing and software quality assurance.

Paul Cheffers says that as a long term career, software developers must resign themselves to constantly learning about new applications and new technologies.







The starting salary is about $35,000 per year and this may go as high as $90,000 for someone with several years experience.

Normally a degree in an information technology discipline is required by employers. These would typically include Bachelor degrees with majors in computer science, information technology, management information systems or software engineering.

Most universities in Western Australia offer computing science degrees. Prerequisites are usually the appropriate TEE score, with passes in English and mathematics. Please contact the preferred institution for more details or refer to the Universities website below.

To increase the likelihood of employment, it is recommended to take studies to Honours level. Many employers prefer people who have achieved First Class Honours.


The vocational education and training sector's response to the needs of the IT industry, has meant that an increasing number of IT certificate and diploma level graduates are being successfully employed in IT businesses as associate professionals.

Another study option is to complete a Diploma of Information Technology (Software Development) offered through TAFE campuses at various locations. You will need to have completed the Certificate IV in Information Technology (Programming), or equivalent. For further information, refer to the TAFE site listed below.

Private providers also offer the above diplomas and certificate courses. For further information, please refer to the NTIS website below.

Traineeships are now being offered in Information Technology and this may be another good way to get into the industry and gain valuable experience. For more information, contact the New Apprenticeship Hotline on 1800 639 629.

Relevant industry experience may also be advantageous to gaining entry into this occupation.

	Other Training Providers
	National Training Information Service website.
	TAFE Colleges
	Homepage links and contact details for all TAFE Colleges in WA.
	TAFE Handbook
	An online guide to full time TAFE courses available throughout WA.
	Universities
	Homepage links and contact details for all Universities in WA.

Australian Computer Society
PO Box 30 Victoria Park WA 6100 Phone: (08) 9470 4878

Information, Electrotechnology and Utilities ITC (WA)
PO Box 597 Balcatta WA 6914 Phone: (08) 9240 2688

GetAccess Links Disclaimer

All links to other sites from this service have been pre-screened and assessed for appropriate content. However, GetAccess cannot guarantee that quality content standards will be maintained at other sites. Please notify GetAccess immediately if any sites display inappropriate content.

Staying one step ahead of the ever-changing world of information technology is all in a day's work for Naveen Yawanarajah who writes Internet-related software for GTP I Commerce Pty Ltd.

''The rate of change in this industry can be described as extreme. Five years ago, the Web (World Wide) was in its infancy. Now it's presence is felt everywhere. In five years time, it will replace the phone in one form or another. My job as a software developer will change accordingly. I will be using smarter tools, but I will also have to learn things at a faster rate,'' says Naveen.

So how did it all begin for this self confessed computer junkie?

''It all started after my dad bought me a book on electronics for beginners. I read that, built all of the kits and then wanted more. Ten years later, I found myself studying computer engineering at Curtin University.''

Years on, Naveen still wants more.

''There's nothing I like better than reading about a new form of Internet programming or a new technology.''

And, while many of us struggle to find our ideal career path, Naveen has successfully channelled his teenage interest in computers into a well paid job.

''I do what I do because I enjoy it. I have been playing with computers since I was 15 and in my case, working with them has been a natural progression. It's also great being part of such a rapidly growing industry.''

And if you're planning to venture into this occupation, Naveen says that a logical mind and the ability to keep up with a changing landscape of technologies and methodologies is fundamental, as is a willingness to learn something new every few months.

Naveen says because of the growth in this industry, IT professionals find their jobs changing constantly. One can't accuse the job of being boring. And it can't be that bad knowing that your work will reach thousands of people either.

''Knowing that the software that I write will be used by thousands of people around the world is very exciting.''

Add a comfortable salary, and Naveen is in an enviable position. Generally, there is the potential to earn large amounts of money in this line of work. According to some IT spokespersons, software developers can earn in excess of $90,000 per year.

Naveen, really only has one other thing to say:

''This is the industry to be in. If you feel you're up to the challenge, take that computer course now, and be prepared for the ride of your life. You won't regret it.''