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Software means a program that runs on a computer. Examples of typical software include Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel provided by Microsoft. The former, Microsoft Word, is called document creation software, and the latter, Microsoft Excel, is a type of spreadsheet software. Simply put, developing this kind of software and putting it on the market is called software development. Software is used in a broad sense. In addition to the document creation software and spreadsheet software mentioned above, software development in a broad sense also includes commercially available applications such as game software and Pokemon developed by Nintendo and Sony, and OSes called operating systems.
In contrast to the software mentioned above, computer terminals and servers themselves are called hardware (terminals). While software is “a program that functions on a computer that cannot be seen with the naked eye,” hardware refers to “a group of devices that make up a computer that can be physically seen.” The combination of software and hardware that can be operated by humans is called a “system.”
Software development flow
Broadly speaking, the flow of software development can be divided into the following seven steps.
1. Planning/Concept
2. rubbing together
3. Requirement definition
4. Basic design and detailed design
5. Development (programming)
6. Unit test and combination test
7. comprehensive exam
8. Launch (release)
9. Operation and maintenance support
Software development begins with identifying the client’s concerns and challenges in detail. After identifying the client’s specific concerns and issues through meetings and interviews, we move on to the planning and conceptualization stage of software development aimed at solving the problem. Of course, during this meeting, we will not only discuss the development content but also the overall project budget, release date, development structure, etc. Once the plan and concept of the software to be developed are finalized and both parties are satisfied with the client, the contract is concluded (technically called “closing”) and the next step is taken.
Requirements definition is the process of clarifying the image, functions, performance, etc. of the software to be developed. If there is a discrepancy in understanding between the software development company and the client, it will cause trouble later on. Requirements definition is one of the most important steps in software development.
Once the requirements are defined, we begin the design process. The design is broadly divided into two parts: basic design and detailed design. Basic design is the process of creating a design document that is easy for the client to understand. On the other hand, a detailed design is a design document created for programmers who will do the development. Based on the specification requirements established in the previous process of requirements definition, we organize the functions and performance to be implemented in the software.
We will develop the software through the basic design and detailed design processes. We perform programming based on the contents of the design document. The number of engineers will vary depending on the scale and difficulty of the software being developed. Engineers who do the design and programmers who do the development work closely together to carefully proceed with the development work.
After the software development work is complete, we test whether the program operates according to specifications. Testing each program is called a unit test, and testing related programs together is called a combined test. Whenever a nonconforming part called a bug is found, the program is modified, and the test ends when there are no bugs or errors in all test items.
After the integration test, a comprehensive test will be conducted on the client side. You will be responsible for confirming and verifying that the software matches the requirements defined in the requirements definition process. Once the product passes the comprehensive test, it will go on the market.
Software development is not the end. Even after the product is launched on the market, there are bound to be many areas for improvement. During the maintenance and operation support process, we check whether the software is working properly and improve the software as appropriate in line with the market environment and end-user (final customer) trends.
What is the difference between software development and system development?
Sometimes people use the terms software and system interchangeably. While software development involves developing the contents of programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel, system development involves not only the software part but also the hardware that is closely related to the software, such as barcode reading equipment and server construction. It includes. Therefore, in some cases, the term system development also includes software development. I think it would be better to understand that system development is used in a broader sense.
Types of software development
Software development is classified by the target to be developed. In this article, I would like to touch on three types of software development.
Web software
Web software development refers to software that runs on web browsers such as Google Chrome, Safari, and Firefox. Specifically, American storage services such as BOX and Dropbox fall under this category of web software. Web-based software can be used as long as there is an Internet environment connected to a browser, without being affected by hardware (here, we refer to PC terminals and smartphone terminals), so one of the major attractions is the ease of use. Sho. It needs to run on a browser, so depending on the software you are developing, you may need the help of an infrastructure engineer who is skilled in network technology.
Application software
Application software refers to programs developed and converted into software according to the user’s usage environment. Typical examples are spreadsheet software Excel, presentation software Powerpoint, and email software Outlook. These are created to suit the usage environment of users using Windows OS. (In modern society, software is becoming more diverse so that it can be used by MacOS, iOS, and AndroidOS users.)
embedded software
Embedded software refers to software that is uniquely built into home appliances, production robots used in factories, etc. The cleaning robot Roomba is also equipped with its own embedded software, and all operations are managed on the software, such as identifying the current location information and which rooms should be prioritized for cleaning. Masu. Recently, IoT has become popular, and this embedded software is being used in things such as refrigerators, bathroom baths, and lighting.
in conclusion
There are countless development companies across Japan, but there are not many development companies in the country that create high-quality systems with excellent maintainability and robustness, or application services that aim for scale (expansion). Our company, GeNEE, is one of the few.
We do not just develop according to the customer’s requests but work together with the customer to find the best solution for the entire business and promote the entire project through a three-in-one system of business, technology, and design. We are a development/app development company. If you have any troubles regarding DX or IT in general, please feel free to contact us using the “Contact GeNEE” form below.
