The Role of a Computer Programmer

Technology is a way of life these days as many individuals find themselves lost without items such as their computers and PDAs. Therefore, it should be no surprise that the job position of computer programmer is not only one that is high in demand but readily available as well. Those who perform the daily job duties related to a computer programmer know just how interesting the position really is.

The following paragraphs will highlight some of the general responsibilities and specific duties which go along with this popular profession.

What Is a Computer Programmer?

For those who may need further information regarding who a computer programmer really is, the individual who fulfills the job role of computer programmer is one who writes and develops various programs relating to the use of the computer. This individual has many various duties relating to their general responsibility of designing computer programs and what the computer programmer does on a daily basis will depend on the specific job position that is filled. Some computer programmers will perform one or two specific duties whereas others will perform many duties in their daily functions.

General Responsibilities of a Computer Programmer

No matter what type of job a computer programmer fulfills, he/she will have general responsibilities to perform in their role as computer programmer. The first is to develop new computer programming methods. These may include anywhere from basic computer programming methods to more in-depth methods. Another general responsibility which a computer programmer must undertake in his/her daily job role is the development of programs themselves. This is an extremely important concept associated with the role of a computer programmer as these are the individuals who construct the useful programs which are used by many.

Another general responsibility of a computer programmer is to consult with outside parties in relation to the construction of computer programming methods and the programs themselves. Lastly, computer programmers must follow the progress of programs to ensure that they are operating correctly and fix any program errors that might occur along the way.

Specific Duties of a Computer Programmer

There are a number of specific duties which go along with the job position of computer programmer. The primary duty of a computer programmer is to develop computer programs. Computer programs can relate to business concepts, games or personal use by individual computer users. There are a vast array of computer programs which can be developed and different computer programmers will create various types of programs.

Another specific duty of a computer programmer is to perform monitoring tasks to ensure that the programs which they develop work as they are supposed to. This is done by reviewing programs on a frequent basis and making adjustments as are necessary to ensure the proper working of a computer program. The computer programmer may perform this specific duty on their own or in conjunction with others.

Some computer programmers may also be in a supervisory position. This means that the computer programmer may oversee the work of coworkers and subordinates on a daily basis. Those who fill a supervisory role may have to hire new computer programmers and others who work in the computer department as well as fire those who do not work out. Computer programmers who are supervisors may also perform scheduling and payroll tasks.

The maintenance of computer databases is another type of specific duty which a computer programmer may find themselves responsible. The size of the database will depend on the computer department which a computer programmer works within and the company which a computer programmer works for in their job position.

Computer programmers may also find themselves possessing the responsibility for preparing graphs, tables and analytical data displays which show the progress of a computer program. This is important as it follows the working of a program and can be used to relay this information to other individuals within the company or the general public as a whole.

The computer programmer may also be the individual who is responsible for providing technical support to those who use the computer programs developed by the individual and his/her company. This relates not only to those individuals who work for the company but outside parties as well. The computer programmer may use phone, email or in person correspondence to aid individuals in using the computer programs and enabling them to work as efficiently as possible.

Positive Attributes for Computer Programmers to Possess

There are a few different personality traits or positive attributes which computer programmers should possess. By having these traits, individuals who fill this job position may find that their daily workload is minimized much more quickly than if they lack these traits. The first trait which computer programmers should possess is an analytical mind. Since they will have to analyze the programming process every step of the way, possessing a trait of this kind will make their job much easier.

Another positive trait for computer programmers to possess is a teamwork attitude. Many computer programmers need to work side by side with others in the computer department so if the individual has a good teamwork attitude they are certain to make their days progress smoothly. Being a good team player will make a world of difference for many.

Computer programmers should also be efficient communicators. Many of the individuals who fulfill the role of computer programmer will find themselves as a type of liaison for various individuals such as members of the general public and company employees. They will help these individuals to not only understand the computer programs but to walk them through ways that they can correct any problems they may have with the computer programs. An individual who possesses good communication skills will find that this trait comes in handy in their daily job duties.

Lastly, computer programmers should be well versed in various computer programs and methods. A well-rounded computer programmer is one whose daily job responsibilities will be fulfilled in a fast and efficient manner.

Conclusion

Computer programmers have many responsibilities and duties to fulfill in their job position. The amount of responsibility which a computer programmer is given will depend on what type of position they hold, the company they work for and their individual desire to be the best that they can be in the computer field. In order to excel in their job position as computer programmer, these individuals may find it helpful to possess some of the various positive attributes listed above.