Bespoke software, also known as custom software, is software that is created for a specific client to their exact specifications. Although most people do not use bespoke software on a daily basis, bespoke software is very important to many organizations and industries. A significant amount of time and training is necessary to become a bespoke software developer.
Software developers who create bespoke programs regularly deal with very complex programming tasks involving several aspects and problems that have not been solved before. Some people find this type of work to be rewarding, but it can also be frustrating when working on tight deadlines with limited support. If you want to become a bespoke software developer, you will need to be clever, resourceful, and, unless working as an independent freelancer, you will need to work well with a team.
Standard training as a software developer is generally considered to be the completion of a four year degree program in computer science. A typical program will include courses on programming theory and modern computer programming languages. As someone who wants to become a bespoke software developer, it is important that you choose a university that offers a broad-spectrum program that is relevant to current programming practices. To evaluate a specific university program, you should ask for information about what sort of jobs recent graduates have found. You should look for a program where many of the graduates have found jobs in startups or custom software development firms.
It is also possible to independently obtain the necessary training to become a bespoke software developer without participating in a university program. The easiest way to determine what to study is to look at current job postings on freelance websites and look at the skills required. You can then go through online tutorials and buy books on the relevant topics. If possible, find out what the recognized certifications are for different languages and obtain them. When you are confident of your abilities, you can start doing more basic freelance projects or participate in an internship.
The three basic job types for bespoke software developers are in-house, development firm, and freelance. In-house developers typically develop and support software for a single company based on its needs. These jobs are very specific and require knowledge of only the technologies that are relevant to the company. In house developers usually work with co-workers who are also familiar with the same projects.
Both freelance and development firm bespoke developers need a wide range of computer programming skills. These programmers routinely handle a diverse range of projects. Even if your intended job is in-house, a diverse skill set will help you become a bespoke software developer because it will increase the number of companies you are qualified to work for.
