As technology becomes increasingly more advanced, so too do our expectations for software development. With the demand for software developers is at an all-time high and showing no signs of slowing down, businesses have been faced with the difficult task of finding qualified candidates to meet their needs. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why there is such a shortage of software developers, what impact it has on businesses, and how to work around the problem.
Anatomy of a Software Developer
Software developers are highly educated professionals who specialize in developing computer programs and applications that enable users to interact with computers and systems. To become a successful software developer, one must be highly knowledgeable in computer programming languages such as C++, C#, Python and Java as well as understand user interface design principles.
Additionally, many employers prefer software developers with expertise in specific business functions or industries in order to develop solutions that are tailored to the company’s goals.
Why There are so Few of Them?
The demand for software developers has been steadily increasing over the past few years. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), demand for software developers will increase by 21% by 2028. This is more than twice as fast as forecasted growth across all other computer occupations by +8.4%. The explosion in app development has driven demand even higher and will see a +25.6% surge in job growth by 2028.
This rise in demand is accompanied by an incredibly competitive job market that makes finding qualified candidates more difficult than ever before! Another reason why there are so few qualified software developers is due to the complexity and ever-evolving nature of programming languages.
For example, many companies expect their candidates to have five years’ experience in a language that may only be two or three years old! Additionally, coding education isn’t always accessible and many students don’t even learn about coding until high school or college level courses. As such, it can be difficult for potential developers to gain the necessary training before entering into the job market.
The Impact on Businesses
Without enough qualified candidates to fill open positions, businesses are facing delays when it comes to getting projects done on time and under budget. This can result in missed deadlines and lost revenue opportunities. Both of which can have serious consequences for companies looking to stay competitive within their respective markets. Furthermore, businesses may end up turning down projects due simply to the lack of available resources and is something that can lead to dissatisfied customers and put companies at risk for losing valuable contracts or business relationships altogether.
The lack of available talent means that companies must compete fiercely for qualified software developers. This can lead to skyrocketing salaries or hiring freezes if there aren’t enough suitable candidates in an area. Businesses may find themselves forced to hire junior level developers who lack the depth of knowledge needed for more complex projects meaning slower turnaround times and higher costs overall.
How to Work Around the Shortage
Finding qualified software developers can be difficult but there are some steps businesses can take to mitigate this issue: First off, companies should focus on hiring individuals who not only possess strong technical skills but who also have a strong understanding of specific business functions. Something that is equally essential when it comes to successful implementation of new technologies within an organization.
Additionally, businesses should consider partnering with third-party consultants or agencies who specialize in connecting organizations with experienced software development professionals. This is something that can help bridge any gaps created by inexperience or lack thereof when it comes to filling open positions quickly and efficiently. Finally, businesses should consider investing in training programs designed specifically for teaching basic coding skills.
This is a great way not only to bring multiple perspectives into projects but also keep employees engaged while helping them develop additional technical skill sets they may need throughout their careers and can help your retention rate low.
The shortage of qualified software developers continues to be an issue today but there are ways that businesses can work around this problem. Focus on hiring individuals with strong technical skills combined with knowledge specific business functions, partnering with third-party consultants or agencies, and investing in training programs designed specifically for teaching basic coding skills.
All of these measures will help ensure successful implementation of new technologies within your organization while helping bridge any gaps created by inexperience or lack thereof when it comes time to fill open positions quickly and efficiently.
How Can Techbridge Help?
At TechBridge, our goal is to bridge the gap between business and employee, matching qualified workers with the companies who need them. If you have any further questions or you’re interested in our staffing and recruiting process, contact us today!
