Coding vs Programming vs Development - Differences
Tags: development, coding, programming, softwaredevelopment
Published: 2024-03-04 23:26:41

Starting out my life as a web developer, I was often brushed off with making a fairly common mistake with the terms - “coder”, “programmer” and “developer”.

So, you must've heard these terms being used in different ways - coding, programming, development. But what do they really mean? It's possible you too might've been using them wrongly, who knows? 

Either way, let's make sure that changes today.

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## Who is a coder?

**In simple sense, a coder is a person who writes instructions in a particular programming language to perform a desired task. It is the art of writing codes.**

Essentially coding;

- Involves writing instructions for the computer.
- It involves the use of a specific programming language, library, or framework.
- Focuses on the nitty-gritty details of building something, making sure every line of code does its job.

## Who is a programmer?

**A programmer is someone who not only writes code but also plans, designs, and implements software solutions.**

Now, let's step back and look at the big picture. Programming is like being the architect in building. You're thinking about how different parts fit together, planning the layout, and making sure everything would work smoothly. It's about solving problems and bringing ideas to life.

In essence, programming;

- Entails planning, designing, and implementing software solutions.
- Involves logic. It involves thinking, lot of planning, and making decisions.
- It's about understanding the needs of users and finding creative ways to meet them.

## Who is a developer?

**A developer is someone who is involved in the conceiving, designing, programming, documenting, testing, and maintenance processes involved in building a software, or software component.**

Here, lets look at development in a much bigger picture. A developer’s job;

- Involves all processes involved in a much broader sense, from conception to deployment, ensuring the final product meets expectations.
- Is more than just writing code or forming logic; it's about delivering value.
- Is an ongoing process, with room for iteration and improvement.

## What I think.

So, in a nutshell, mixing up the words "coder," "programmer," and "developer" is totally normal, but they're actually like different roles in the world of software.

A coder is like the behind-the-scenes hero who writes instructions in a computer language so it can do the cool things. They're all about making sure every tiny detail in the code works perfectly.

Now, a programmer? They're the big thinkers! They not only write code but also plan and design how everything will fit together. It's like they're building a puzzle and making sure all the pieces fit just right to making that awesome thing.

And finally, a developer is like the superhero of the software world. They do everything from coming up with the idea to making sure it's working smoothly even after it's out there. They're always tweaking and improving things to make them even better.

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## Conclusion

Coder - Programmer - Developer; One can choose to be either of these things. But they represent the hierarchy of roles in the sense that; a programmer can be a coder and a developer will be involved in both programming and coding. Nevertheless, being a coder doesn’t necessarily make you a developer.

All said now;

Cheers to building awesome things with technology! 🚀


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