Application development and design
As software demands become more prevalent and complex, application development and design continues to experience a wave of changes in terms of tooling and practices. Learn about the latest in this field, including breakdowns of both established and emerging languages, as well as the key practices required for successful development efforts.
Top Stories
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Video
21 Mar 2025
Introduction to JavaFX tutorial for beginners
Did you think desktop development in Java was dead? Far from it. Here's how JavaFX has brought desktop programming in Java back to life. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2025
Understanding code smells and how refactoring can help
It works, but does it pass the sniff test? Code smells can be the canary in the coal mine for poor coding, which calls for refactoring. Explore how to identify and deodorize code smells. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jul 2022
parser
In computer technology, a parser is a program that's usually part of a compiler. It receives input in the form of sequential source program instructions, interactive online commands, markup tags or some other defined interface. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Jul 2022
bitwise
Bitwise operations manipulate data at the bit level rather than with bytes or larger units of data, as is more common. Most operators work with either single or multiple bytes, which in most systems contain eight bits Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2022
A 7-point language comparison of Ballerina vs. Golang
This comparison takes a look at both Ballerina and Golang, including their support for high-level programming, libraries, built-in management features and community support. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Jun 2022
synthetic monitoring
Synthetic monitoring is the use of software to simulate user interactions with a system. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jun 2022
How viable is it to create microservices in Python?
Python offers microservices developers access to advanced scripting, embedded testing and plugin tooling. But is it a good fit for you? And what are the alternatives if it isn't? Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Jun 2022
binary file
A binary file is a file whose content is in a binary format that consists of a series of sequential bytes, each of which is eight bits in length. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Jun 2022
strongly typed programming language
A strongly typed programming language is one in which each type of data, such as integers, characters, hexadecimals and packed decimals, is predefined as part of the programming language, and all constants or variables defined for a given program must be described with one of the data types. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Jun 2022
instantiation
In programming, instantiation is the creation of a real instance or particular realization of an abstraction or template, such as a class of objects or a computer process. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2022
11 cloud programming languages developers need to know
How do you choose the cloud programming language that best suits your current and future needs? Explore 11 popular options and their use cases. Continue Reading
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News
08 Jun 2022
OpenJS World 2022 highlights what's new in web standards
At OpenJS World 2022, a keynote panel discussed efforts focused on improving interoperability and evolving web standards, and commiserated on how some things will never change. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Jun 2022
system of systems (SoS)
A system of systems (SoS) is the collection of multiple, independent systems in context as part of a larger, more complex system. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Jun 2022
SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol)
SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) is a message protocol that enables the distributed elements of an application to communicate. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 May 2022
data binding
Data binding is the process that couples two data sources together and synchronizes them. Continue Reading
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News
18 May 2022
Google Firebase speeds developer process with new features
The new Firebase additions may not excite developers, but they do add some much-needed functionality to the platform. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 May 2022
Smoke testing vs. sanity testing explainer on key differences
While smoke and sanity testing are both techniques QA professionals use to quickly identify feature defects, they differ when it comes to scope, automation requirements and timing. Continue Reading
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Definition
09 May 2022
XML Schema Definition (XSD)
XML Schema Definition or XSD is a recommendation by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to describe and validate the structure and content of an XML document. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 May 2022
garbage collection (GC)
Garbage collection (GC) is a memory recovery feature built into programming languages such as C# and Java. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 May 2022
LDAP injection
LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) injection is a type of security exploit that is used to compromise the authentication process used by some websites. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Apr 2022
The fundamentals of writing effective acceptance criteria
Acceptance criteria plays a key role in shaping an application from the user standpoint. We review some of the basic things to remember when it comes to acceptance criteria. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Apr 2022
development environment
In software, web and mobile application development, the development environment is a workspace with a set of processes and programming tools used to develop the source code for an application or software product. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Apr 2022
object
In object-oriented programming (OOP), objects are the things you think about first in designing a program and they are also the units of code that are eventually derived from the process. Continue Reading
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News
07 Apr 2022
Atlassian product expansion raises fresh integration questions
Atlassian added analytics and new Atlas and Compass apps to orchestrate work among distributed teams, but some customers still seek deeper integrations between its cloud tools. Continue Reading
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News
23 Mar 2022
Nvidia unveils latest 3D sim tech for multiple industries
Nvidia has launched a cloud-based version of its Omniverse platform for 3D simulations. The company also unveiled an Omniverse computing system. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Mar 2022
The basics of working with declarative programming languages
While imperative programming is often a go-to, the declarative approach has proved useful in the face of demands for complex, feature-heavy business applications. Continue Reading
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News
15 Mar 2022
Golang generics spark excitement, anxiety in watershed release
Golang generics support is a landmark event in the language's evolution that some say could expand enterprise usage, while others are nervous about potential complexity. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Mar 2022
Micro apps vs. microservices: What developers should know
On the surface, the contrast between micro apps and microservices simply seems a matter of front-end vs. back-end concerns. But this isn't the only difference worth knowing. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Feb 2022
Where requirements-based tests fit in software testing
Requirements-based testing has its upsides and downsides, and it's not right for every software project. But certain dev teams should still adopt the method. Learn which ones. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Feb 2022
An intro to cloud-native microservices and how to build them
While there are a variety of ways to develop cloud-native microservices, focus on strategies that enable as much agility, resiliency and development simplicity as possible. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Feb 2022
A brief breakdown of declarative vs. imperative programming
While imperative programming is both an established and approachable method of coding, the declarative model is gaining appeal as demands for complex, flexible features increase. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2022
WebStorm vs. Visual Studio, and how to choose the right IDE
WebStorm and Visual Studio represent two ends of a wide spectrum when it comes to the IDE platform market. However, their true differences go well beyond their pricing structures. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jan 2022
Using the BFF pattern to keep UIs flexible and reliable
BFF is a simple design pattern that can help developers address UI-related challenges, such as problematic coupling, overfetching of data and inconsistent error handling. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Dec 2021
WebLogic
Oracle WebLogic Server is a leading e-commerce online transaction processing (OLTP) platform, developed to connect users in distributed computing production environments and to facilitate the integration of mainframe applications with distributed corporate data and applications. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Nov 2021
BSA | The Software Alliance
BSA | The Software Alliance is an advocate for public policies that foster technology innovation and drive economic growth. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Nov 2021
Programming in Ruby: A critical look at the pros and cons
While Ruby showcases an impressive spread of beneficial features, there are still specific shortcomings that may explain why its adoption numbers have been conspicuously erratic. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Oct 2021
PHP 8 features that prove it's for more than just web
Looking to keep up with the demand for increasingly sophisticated development capabilities, PHP 8 brings interesting new integrations that transcend the realm of web development. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Oct 2021
What is foo (in software programming)?
Foo (pronounced FOO) is a term used by programmers as a placeholder for a value that can change depending on conditions or on information passed to the program. Continue Reading
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Opinion
04 Oct 2021
Should software architect responsibilities include coding?
There are many variations to the role of the software architect in today's IT teams, and a lingering debate is over whether they should all be hands-on with code. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Sep 2021
8 fundamental microservices security best practices
Despite the benefits, microservices will introduce profound security issues. We review the biggest microservices security challenges and eight strategies used to combat them. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Sep 2021
refactoring
Refactoring is the process of restructuring code, while not changing its original functionality. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Aug 2021
The functional programming paradigm at enterprise scale
Many enterprise-level architects rely on an object-oriented approach, but there are good reasons and practical ways to introduce functional programming within large-scale systems. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Aug 2021
.NET vs. Node.js: What they are, and which to choose
The choice between using .NET and Node.js for application development shouldn't be a difficult one but requires a solid understanding of each approach's pros and cons. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Aug 2021
The 4 Golden Signals, and how to put them into practice
There's nothing easy about monitoring distributed systems, but the right metrics can help. Here's how to put the Golden Signals of software reliability to work. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 Jun 2021
To master software design patterns, perspective is everything
Elisabeth Robson and Eric Freeman, authors of 'Head First Design Patterns,' outline their quest to teach software design patterns and show developers the right way to learn them. Continue Reading
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Tip
17 Jun 2021
Static vs. dynamic typing: The details and differences
What are the key differences between static typing and dynamic typing, and what role do their differences play in the decision to use one programming language over another? Continue Reading
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Guest Post
20 May 2021
The role of DevOps practices in application design
Fancy architecture diagrams and aesthetically pleasing code are nice things to have. But they don't mean much without the support of DevOps-centric design practices. Continue Reading
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News
29 Apr 2021
Atlassian Open DevOps beats 'good enough'
Atlassian's new Open DevOps strategy taps best-of-breed DevOps tools for integration into a single toolchain to ease the burden for software development teams. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Apr 2021
Is life as a freelance software developer for you?
Succeeding as a freelance developer requires much more than waiting for clients to contact you. Explore how to boost your skill set and land freelance gigs. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Apr 2021
application service provider (ASP)
An application service provider (ASP) is a company that offers individuals or enterprises access to applications and related services over the internet. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2021
Micro apps: A simple way to add sophisticated features
When building a new web or mobile app seems like overkill, micro apps might be the most practical way for developers to add niche features and functionality. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Mar 2021
Diagrams.net vs. Lucidchart: A few things to consider
While UML diagramming is a relatively universal approach, not all visualization tools are made for the same crowd. Diagrams.net and Lucidchart offer a good example of this. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Mar 2021
The difference between front-end and back-end developers
While front-end and back-end application development are two parts of a greater whole, the specifics of each career present some stark differences between them. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Mar 2021
3 predictable application architect interview questions
Software architecture roles are awfully industry specific, but there are still baseline skills employers want to see. These are some of the questions they ask to find those skills. Continue Reading
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Opinion
16 Mar 2021
Fight microservices complexity with low-code development
Software developers are in a constant battle with complexity. Microservices hold promise as ready-to-assemble app components, but low-code development might be a better approach. Continue Reading
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Definition
15 Mar 2021
mobile application development
Mobile application development is the set of processes and procedures involved in writing software for small, wireless computing devices. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Mar 2021
An application architect's chief roles and responsibilities
Today's application architect isn't just a high-caliber developer, but an experienced leader with both the technical and business chops to propel an organization's software strategy. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Mar 2021
Get to know 4 microservices versioning techniques
Are you struggling to apply updates consistently across distributed services? Here are four microservices versioning techniques that can help. Continue Reading
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News
24 Feb 2021
Lightbend launches new Akka Cloud Platform on AWS
Lightbend's new Akka Cloud Platform seeks to bring a simpler approach to cloud-native development than options from hyperscalers and companies such as Pulumi and Serverless. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Feb 2021
App interface design principles all developers should know
The first step in choosing the right app interface design is to understand the options available to developers. Dive deeper into these popular design concepts and approaches. Continue Reading
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News
18 Feb 2021
Google, Microsoft back Python and Rust programming languages
As Google and Microsoft join and strengthen forces with the foundations behind the Python and Rust programming languages, the companies will get to help shape their future. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Feb 2021
NetBeans vs. Eclipse: 5 key comparison points for these IDEs
When implementing IDEs into an application architecture, Eclipse and NetBeans are often top contenders. But is one of these IDEs really better than the other? Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Feb 2021
4 reasons Dart is still a language worth learning
Despite a perception that it is dead, there are a few reasons Dart is still a language worth learning. We explore a few reasons why it may not be as obsolete as some think. Continue Reading
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News
09 Feb 2021
Survey: Open source skills more valued than proprietary ones
In the hybrid cloud world, developers with open source skills are more likely to be hired by enterprises than developers skilled in proprietary technologies. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Jan 2021
5 tips for stronger development team management
Being a competent manager and leading a successful software development team isn't as easy as it looks. Explore the skills, tools and best practices that can strengthen your current workforce. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jan 2021
The differences between SVN and Git that matter
Not sure how to pick between Git and SVN for your versioning needs? We break down the key differences between these tools, including their most potent benefits and drawbacks. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jan 2021
Examining the low-code market's race for citizen developers
Low-code and no-code vendors are fighting viciously for the favor of citizen developers. Examine the reasons for this trend and the market moves that reveal these vendors' motives. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Dec 2020
The 4 rules of a microservices defense-in-depth strategy
Learn the four must-follow rules when introducing defense-in-depth to a distributed microservices architecture, especially when services traverse numerous networks and apps. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Dec 2020
Objective-C vs. Swift: The war for iOS development supremacy
While Objective-C still holds the crown, Swift is quickly mobilizing to rule iOS development. Let's examine and compare the most compelling features of each language. Continue Reading
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News
25 Nov 2020
New Agile 2 development aims to plug gaps, complement DevOps
The new Agile 2 initiative aims to address problems with the original Agile Manifesto and give greater voice to developers who are disenfranchised in existing Agile environments. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Nov 2020
Navigating the evolving BPA tools market
The BPA market tool landscape is still maturing, but organizations should prepare themselves to adopt it. Review the basics of BPA and learn how to start building your automation strategy. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Nov 2020
4 mobile app security threats all developers must face
Mobile apps carry their own set of code-based vulnerabilities and entry points, meaning developers need to step up their secure development, coding and deployment practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Nov 2020
9 tried-and-true open source frameworks for development
No matter which type of application you are developing or what your priorities are, there is likely an open source framework that caters to your needs. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Nov 2020
How to create an effective software architecture roadmap
For large-scale initiatives that span the enterprise, a well-planned software architecture roadmap allows development teams to navigate projects safely and efficiently. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Oct 2020
Django vs. Node.js: Pick the right web development framework
Understanding the differences between Django and Node.js comes down to understanding their data capabilities and the programming languages that make up each one's history. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Oct 2020
The non-tech skills of software development project managers
Teams are key to the success of any enterprise software project, but development teams don't run themselves. Managers need the right skills to keep their employees on track. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Oct 2020
How to start managing software development teams like a pro
Team performance is vital to a software project's success. Avoid these common management challenges and learn about the key metrics that help monitor your team's effectiveness. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Sep 2020
MVC vs. MVVM: 2 architecture patterns for modularity
Both the MVC and MVVM design patterns separate front-end and back-end application components, but each one has unique methods of interface manipulation and abstraction. Continue Reading
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News
03 Sep 2020
Mendix looks to change the low-code landscape
At Mendix World, low-code app dev platform provider Mendix laid out plans to build up its ecosystem of third-party low-code tools in hopes of broadening its appeal to developers. Continue Reading
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News
02 Sep 2020
Microsoft, VMware make Azure Spring Cloud GA
Azure Spring Cloud has reached general availability as a service that enables Spring Boot developers to build and run Java apps on Microsoft's Azure cloud platform. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Aug 2020
The top software developer skills, tools and certifications
Now tasked with managing complex enterprise software systems, the depth of skills and breadth of knowledge needed by developers has never been more profound. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Aug 2020
A developer guide to software localization
Software has become as multilingual and multicultural as the world itself. Localizing your code can keep your company from a potentially disastrous cultural blunder. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Aug 2020
Explore 10 popular open source development tools
Whether you're writing, managing, building or deploying source code, there is an open source development tool to help do the job. Check out these quick tool intros to get you started. Continue Reading
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Tip
06 Aug 2020
10 of the best programming languages to learn in 2020
Different jobs call for different programming languages, and the wrong choice could cause your project to fail. Add these tools to your must-learn list so you are prepared for any assignment. Continue Reading
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News
03 Aug 2020
Deloitte, Unqork team up to bring no-code to the enterprise
Deloitte has partnered with no-code development platform provider Unqork to help enterprise customers that are undergoing digital transformations and app modernizations. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Jul 2020
A comparison of 6 top programming languages
Choosing the right programming language can be tough. We place six popular languages head to head: Python vs. Ruby, Kotlin vs. Swift and Erlang vs. Elixir. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Jul 2020
If software architects' soft skills fail, so does the business
Mark Richards and Neal Ford, authors of 'Fundamentals of Software Architecture,' share real-life examples of why architects must communicate well, and explain how to do it. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jun 2020
Key strategies to help migrate to microservices
Microservices adoption is no easy feat. In addition to the technical process of transitioning from a monolith, enterprises must also look at team structure and common migration mistakes. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jun 2020
Why COBOL modernization matters, and how devs can react
With COBOL expertise in high demand and low supply, it may be time for devs to think about how much they really know about this language. We explore why COBOL skills still matter. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jun 2020
Amazon uses spreadsheet interface for Honeycode no-code tool
Amazon Web Services has delivered a new no-code tool called Honeycode. It is a fully managed service with a spreadsheet user interface for non-programmers to create apps. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jun 2020
4 best practices for creating architecture decision records
An ADR is only as good as the record quality. Follow these best practices to establish a dependable ADR creation and maintenance process. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Jun 2020
The guide to landing an enterprise architect job
Interested in becoming an enterprise architect? This guide reviews the essential responsibilities of architects and how you can master the application process. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Jun 2020
How to start using a BDD framework
Why bother with behavior-driven development? Learn how this Agile-focused development framework can help bolster application quality, and explore tooling that can help. Continue Reading
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News
28 May 2020
DockerCon 2020 showcases tighter alliance with Microsoft
Docker has introduced an integration with Azure Container Instances that developers can use to run Docker commands in ACI and switch from desktop development to the cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 May 2020
Refactor vs. rewrite: Deciding what to do with problem software
At some point, all developers must decide whether to refactor code or rewrite it. Base this choice on factors such as architectural soundness, time, money and goals. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 May 2020
2020 conferences for software developers and architects
Fortunately, you can't lose your badge at a virtual conference. Check out our list of both online and in-person conferences, including DockerCon, API World and Microsoft Build. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Apr 2020
Kotlin vs. Swift: An open source programming language face-off
Take a look into what Kotlin and Swift have to offer in terms of cross-platform capabilities, library support and ease of use. Also, review their major strengths and limitations. Continue Reading
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Photo Story
29 Apr 2020
5 best practices for remote development teams
More developers than ever now work from home and must quickly adapt to remote life. Our experts explain how to proactively support the isolated members of your development team. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Apr 2020
Use tokens for microservices authentication and authorization
Independent and interoperable microservices require a permissions rethink, or you'll drive users crazy. Examine how tokens come into play for authentication and authorization. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Mar 2020
5 key software testability characteristics
How do you design the software components for comprehensive testing? Start with these fundamentals of software testability -- from mocks and stubs to infrastructure-as-code. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Mar 2020
14 top mobile app KPIs that advance development
No matter its purpose, a mobile application must meet expectations from users and corporate stakeholders. Here are 14 mobile app KPIs that you need to know. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Mar 2020
What is the difference between Python and Ruby?
In this article, we explore the genesis of these two programming languages, notable characteristics and differences, and where each language might be headed. Continue Reading