Thinking Skills
Level 2
Computer Programmers
- get software projects that are dropped by other programmers
- find that the programming may be different because it was written by many programmers
- clean up the programming of the applications, section by section, always making sure that the applications do what they are suppose to do
Level 3
Computer Programmers
- deal with ‘bugs’ in new software applications or errors while programming
- find that software designs do not meet client’s expectations and look for ways to make the design better
Level 1
Computer Programmers
- decide the names and naming conventions for the different sections of software applications
Level 2
Computer Programmers
- decide the protocols to be used to download and transfer files from central systems to local systems – they consider
- type and size of data
- space available on the system receiving the data
- ability to compress data (make data take less space)
- ease of use of protocol in another system
- decide tasks to be done by team members
Level 3
Computer Programmers
- decide what order tasks need to be done
Example
- when software development times are short, they may decide to focus on function, not appearance
- choose programming methods and languages
Example
- decide to use object-oriented techniques and control structures such as loops and conditional statements while considering
- project specification
- expected performance
- client preferences
- previous experience with similar projects
Poor decision making can lead to applications that are slow or don’t work well. This can cost more time and money.
Level 2
Computer Programmers
- evaluate websites and software to see if there are functions they can use in a current project
- evaluate if what the client wants can be done – they consider the
- time needed
- budget allowed
- technology available
- ability to meet client’s business needs
- challenges with the project
- way programs might work together
- function of each program
- products that are available
- client’s needs
Own Job Planning and Organizing
Computer Programmers are responsible for planning their own computer programming activities and meeting project deadlines
- work on several projects at the same time
- coordinate their workplans with those of several co-workers and colleagues
- prioritize job tasks
- allow flexibility in their schedules to respond to unexpected requests from clients and problems in applications
Planning and Organizing for Others
Computer programmers may coordinate and direct activities of testing groups and other technicians.
Computer Programmers must remember
- where to find files on their computers
- programming information and logic until they can write it down
- sections or order of frequently used programming codes
- login names and passwords to get into computer and network systems
- past programming bugs to use this information for problem solving
Level 3
Computer Programmers
- find programming codes to see how other programmers have avoided or solved problems
Level 4
Computer Programmers
- search for code examples when programming an uncommon or new feature for a software application
Example
To find solutions they
- check technical manuals
- read user and application guides
- go to online help desks or support groups
- speak with co-workers
