+ Software Development
Software development begins with defining the platform.
Functionality always comes first. This applies both to
firmware for embedded systems and to scripts for desktop
applications or web development.
Interfaces to machines, so-called APIs, have different requirements than
user interfaces. While machines interact in a resource-efficient and
effective way, a user is confronted with the most intuitive usability possible.
Cross-disciplinary collaboration with hardwaredevelopers,
networkadministrators, dataanalysts, or designers is always required.
A basic understanding of other disciplines is assumed.
Choosing the right hardware matters for each respective application. Single-board computers running simple Linux systems offer a hybrid solution between
hardware-level programming and scripting applications. Everything from simple server applications
up to entire Docker containers can run on them.
+ Embedded Systems
Embedded systems are based on the use of microcontrollers.
Their hardware-level programming is done in compiled programming
languages such as C and C++. Sensors and actuators are located
on the controller's board. Inputs via buttons, speech, or
RFID tags can be captured just as well as analog and digital
sensor data. Addressing motors, relays, or displays offers
applicationpossibilities for control, regulation, and automation.
+ Scripting Applications
Scripts run on operating systems of PCs and servers such as
Windows, macOS, or Linux distributions. They automate file
management, data structuring, as well as retrieving and sending
information. Further applications through interpretable scripting
languages such as Matlab or Python lie in
visualization, machine learning, or big data. JavaScript dynamically
extends static websites and progressive web apps.
+ Web Development
Websites provide an entry point into user interfaces.
Landing pages and webapplications can be accessed directly from the browser with a URL.
Under the specifications of web designers, web development is much
more about implementing the desired functionality in the frontend. While
scripting applications run on servers in the backend, the responsive frontend is
interpreted directly by the browser on PC and smartphone through markup languages
such as HTML and CSS. Progressive web apps also offer functions that run offline
on end devices and, in part, replace native apps
under iOS and Android.