The development of web and software applications has become a critical part of businesses today. While both share many similarities, there are also very distinct differences between the two. Web development and software development have different processes, tools, and goals.
Understanding the differences between them is the key to selecting the right development methodology for your next project.
In this article, we’ll delve into the nuances that differentiate web and software development, two key areas in the tech sector. We’ll look into their unique challenges, the specialized skills they require, and their impact on our everyday digital experiences.
Software Development vs Web Development: What’s the Difference?
Overall, web development and software development have their benefits and drawbacks. Web development is typically faster and easier to implement, but it is also more limited in its abilities. Software development, on the other hand, is more powerful, but it is also more time-consuming and expensive.
In simplest terms, web development is creating websites using HTML, CSS, or Javascript. On the other hand, software development involves the development of software using a specific programming language like C, C++, Java, etc.
Understanding the differences between web and software development can help you make an informed decision on which process is best for your project. Let’s dive into it.
Software Development Overview
Software development is the process of creating and maintaining computer software. It involves a wide range of activities such as coding, testing, debugging, and documenting. Software developers use programming languages such as C#, Java, and Python to create software applications. They also use frameworks and libraries such as .NET, Spring, and Hadoop to develop complex software applications.
Software is developed to meet business objectives. And software development is also known by the names: software design and application development.
Software Developer Skills
The role of a software developer is a complex one that requires precise technical know-how. Here are some of the top technical skills to look for when interviewing a software developer.
- Java
- JavaScript
- Python
- C++
- Git
- Oracle
- Linux
Besides these technical skills, it is also important for a software developer to have transferable skills such as problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and good planning and analytical skills.
Web Development Overview
Web development is the process of creating and maintaining websites. It involves a wide range of activities such as coding, scripting, designing, content management, and security. Web developers use HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other programming languages to create web applications. They also use frameworks and libraries such as Angular, React, and Node to develop complex web applications.
Web development entails everything that is required to keep a website functioning properly. The process involves running and overseeing operations to build and manage a website.
Web Developer Skills
What skills should you look for when hiring a web developer?
Web development is best done by those who are willing to learn and acquire special skills. Technology keeps updating itself every now and then. That’s why it is important for a web developer to have the flexibility to keep evolving along with the evolution of technology.
Here are some of the technical skills you should look for when hiring a web developer.
- HTML/CSS
- JavaScript
- Data Analysis
- SEO
Besides the technical skills, here are some other important skills to look for in a web developer:
- Attention to detail because websites need to provide a seamless experience to their users.
- Front-end developers need to be familiar with applications such as Adobe Creative Suite as they work closely with web designers to take care of the UI.
- Quick adaptability to new coding technologies, languages, and frameworks.
Besides just technical skills, communication skills are also essential for web developers. When web developers work in a team, they need to be able to put forward their ideas in a simple yet understandable manner.
Difference Between a Software Developer and Web Developer
Now that we have outlined what each of these does and the necessary skills required for each, in order to truly understand who you should hire for your business, it is important to lay out the differences here.
1. Applications
Software developers create applications for web, mobile, and desktop platforms, while web developers are IT professionals who construct websites using code.
2. Architecture
The architecture of website development involves both client-side and server-side. However, in software development, the applications are only client-side.
3. Programming Languages
Software developers use languages such as Java, C++, and Python to build apps. On the other hand, web developers use languages such as HTML, JavaScript, and CSS to build websites.
4. Designing
Usually, software design is straightforward whereas web development involves designing interactive, engaging front-end websites/apps that anyone can use.
5. Dynamic
Software apps are usually static and used by a limited set of people in an enterprise. On the other hand, web applications often have dynamic elements. Dynamic web elements like interactivity and dynamic web pages in a website are necessary to provide a good user experience on the scale.
6. Platform
A software development platform is specific and can be a local system/server/machine. On the other hand, a website is usually cross-platform (mobile (Android/iOS), web). And it is deployed on a public server. It can be accessed via the public domain.
7. Security & Robustness
Websites are more prone to cyber attacks, phishing, etc. as they are in the public domain. So, they are usually less robust than software apps that have enterprise-level security and are usually limited to local servers.
8. Hosting & Compatibility
The software doesn’t always require hosting but websites need to be hosted. Software developer apps are usually compatible across different platforms whereas web developer apps or sites are compatible across different browsers.
Final Thoughts
Whether you should hire a web developer or a software developer for your business depends on what you’re looking to create.
If your current project is about creating a website, then you need to look for a web developer while if your current project is about a mobile or desktop application, then a software developer is the best choice.
Since development teams work well remotely, it is best to go with a remote developer so that you can consider the best global tech talent for the role. Hiring a remote recruitment agency that specializes in tech recruitment is the perfect answer to your tech recruitment woes. Get in touch with DistantJob today to hire a certified web developer remotely.
