Application Architecture
Top Stories
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Tip
30 Jul 2026
Automated testing is not a magic bullet
Test automation rarely serves as a shortcut to faster testing. Its greatest value lies in improving software quality, expanding coverage and enabling testers to focus on high-value work. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Jul 2026
Rethink how you screen senior developers to produce better mentors
Traditional coding tests often miss the qualities that matter most in senior developers. Explore a hiring approach focused on code review, mentoring and practical problem solving. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jan 2018
Want to make software developer hiring easier? Be flexible
Developers are still in short supply, but companies can hire and retain talented people through a flexible and learning-driven workplace, according to insights from a HackerRank survey. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jan 2018
Understanding the benefits of serverless functions
The use of serverless functions can help developers minimize the time spent managing resources by segmenting third-party dependencies. Zach Flower explains. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Jan 2018
Can containerization tools aid microservices communication?
Containerization tools have taken on a critical role in managing communication between microservices, and two Kubernetes-based tools in particular are getting the job done. Continue Reading
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Tip
19 Jan 2018
Testers face pressure to improve software technical skills
If you want to stand out from the testing crowd, spend some time acquiring technical skills. Expert Matthew Heusser offers an on-point tester training curriculum. Continue Reading
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Answer
17 Jan 2018
What skills do Agile testers need?
The Agile team collaborates closely and makes a lot of changes. What does the ideal Agile tester possess in technical and people skills? Continue Reading
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News
15 Jan 2018
Atomist extends CI/CD to automate the entire DevOps toolchain
The Atomist DevOps automation platform extends beyond CI/CD to fully cover DevOps processes end to end, enabling developers to avoid mundane tasks and focus on productivity. Continue Reading
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Answer
15 Jan 2018
What does 2018 hold for application containerization?
There was plenty of movement around Kubernetes in 2017, and there seems to be more to come in the year ahead. Twain Taylor makes predictions about container management in 2018. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Jan 2018
What is the best way to load test mobile applications?
Mobile apps create a challenge for testers; no approach can cover every device. However, there are best practices for load testing mobile applications. Continue Reading
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Answer
04 Jan 2018
What does it mean to test APIs?
Expert Gerie Owen explains what it means to test APIs and why it is important to ensure that applications are working at peak performance level. Continue Reading
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Opinion
03 Jan 2018
What breakthroughs we won't (and will) see in DevOps 2018
Will 2018 be the best of times for DevOps? Perhaps. But there's no doubt sweeping changes on the developer and operations sides are coming. Here's what to prepare for. Continue Reading
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Opinion
02 Jan 2018
Why you should get on board with software testing trends
Will your organization design a machine learning app in 2018? Or should you pick up DevOps skills to be in demand as a tester? These trends will all have a major effect on software testing. Continue Reading
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Quiz
26 Dec 2017
Test your IQ on microservices principles and strategies
Think you have a good handle on microservices and how to properly introduce them to your organization? Take a shot at this quiz to find out for yourself. Continue Reading
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Answer
09 Nov 2017
How do I understand runtime environments?
Whether it's C, Java or Adobe, it's important to understand the differences among runtime environments. Expert Stephen J. Bigelow outlines the various choices. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Oct 2017
The pros and cons of container platforms for portability
Container platforms enable high degrees of portability, but there are some container portability limitations related to persistent storage, different container formats and more. Continue Reading
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Opinion
26 Oct 2017
Who is responsible for software development and design?
Can developers and designers ever meet in the middle? And if so, how can they speak the same language? Expert Jason Grant offers tried-and-true advice for making it work. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Oct 2017
What are the pros and cons of contract QA jobs?
Contract QA jobs can pay more than staff positions, but only if you're a good negotiator. Expert Amy Reichert helps explain the differences between staff QA and contractors. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Sep 2017
Deciding between IaaS and PaaS for microservices
Implementing a microservices architecture requires a stable DevOps team. Whether the target environment is IaaS or PaaS, users must consider needs, costs and culture. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Sep 2017
Mobile app architecture is nothing without MBaaS
Many companies today are turning to MBaaS platforms that take the pain out of mobile app architecture by enabling microservices and making API management the center of the system. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Sep 2017
What's the difference between IaaS and PaaS to developers?
Before making a decision about IaaS vs. PaaS for development, organizations should know the major differences. Here we examine the differences between the two. Continue Reading
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Opinion
22 Sep 2017
UX vs. UI design: It's complicated but important to understand
User experience is tied to user interface, but they're not the same thing in software design. Expert Jason Grant offers his take on how to use both to make better software. Continue Reading
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Answer
30 Aug 2017
Should the QA process always include the business side?
Quality assurance professionals need to start thinking about bringing business along for the ride. Expert Amy Reichert offers tried-and-true advice to get started. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Aug 2017
In a microservices app, how many microservices are too many?
How many microservices are optimal for your microservices app? DevOps analyst Chris Tozzi explains how to use containers, codebase analysis and other tactics to decide. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jul 2017
What is the future of container deployment?
Container deployment continues to evolve with the help of VM models, microservices and DevOps. Learn how the container architecture can impact your business goals. Continue Reading
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Quiz
30 Jun 2017
Test your knowledge of API management tools and techniques
Are you on top of your game when it comes to API management tools, techniques and strategies? This quiz will test your knowledge when it comes to cultivating your API ecosystem. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 May 2017
Struggling with testing? Here's how to get lean QA started
Trying to identify bottlenecks in the software testing process can be challenging, but starting a lean QA effort can help. Expert Amy Reichert explains. Continue Reading
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News
10 May 2017
Open source philosophy goes well beyond software -- and into our lives
According to advocates, open source software is just the first step in a larger movement -- one that aims to make open source an integral part of our daily lives. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Apr 2017
Five reasons your software testing career is harder than necessary
No job is perfect, but software testers do have a few things to complain about. Expert Amy Reichert shares the five things that make her want to polish her résumé. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 Apr 2017
What happens when acceptance criteria in software testing is missing?
You can't test something if you don't know what it's supposed to do. Often, testers have a very incomplete understanding of what they're testing. Here's how to fix the problem. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Apr 2017
Microsoft Azure App Service lets developers build cloud applications
For businesses looking to modernize legacy apps, Microsoft Azure App Service hosts several features that let users create web, mobile and Azure API apps in the cloud. Continue Reading
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Tip
31 Mar 2017
Comparing containers and VMs for multi-tenant apps
Secure containers is a big concern when comparing virtual machines and containers for multi-tenant apps. Learn what each has to offer and which works best for your organization. Continue Reading
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News
27 Mar 2017
Five ways to reduce technical debt, rework costs in Agile, DevOps
Learn five ways to reduce technical debt and the high cost of rework in Agile and DevOps software development. Five software pros share their best practices. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Mar 2017
Everything you need to know about testing .NET applications
For the most efficient testing, you need the right tools for the job. Expert Matt Heusser explains in detail all the testing tools for tackling apps built with Microsoft's .NET. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Mar 2017
HPE Unified Functional Testing allows for application test automation
The HPE Unified Functional Testing platform provides users with interactive tools for creating and executing automated app testing tasks on desktop, mobile and web platforms. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Mar 2017
An overview of the eggPlant testing tool for test automation
The eggPlant testing tool provides developers and testers with software to create, schedule and execute automated testing and debugging tasks on a variety of mobile platforms. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Mar 2017
Troubleshooting microservices performance problems
Get a better understanding of troubleshooting tools and techniques for managing microservices performance issues. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Mar 2017
Exploring the three major types of software testing tools
Application testing tools make enterprises' app development more efficient. Learn more about automation, coverage and bug tracking tools. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Feb 2017
State and threading: Key concepts in a .NET microservices architecture
There are a number of reasons why implementing a .NET microservices architecture presents a challenge. Tom Nolle explains how to marry .NET and microservices. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Feb 2017
How to manage microservices with a container registry
Container registries will help to compile and store images. Get a better understanding of popular registry products and services. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 Feb 2017
How to keep microservices performance from going south
Microservices can streamline development, but at what cost? Kurt Marko discusses the potential performance impacts and how to implement proper microservices performance management. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2017
Application containers offer a new approach to SOA
Traditional SOA and containerized infrastructure share many common goals, but containers offer better efficiency and manageability. How can enterprises bring the two together? Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2016
Be a more technical tester with HTML, CSS and JS
If you're ready to boost your testing skills, why not learn more about web development? Expert Matt Heusser walks you through HTML, CSS and JS to get you started. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 Nov 2016
REST vs. SOAP: Choosing the best web service
SOAP and REST offer different methods to invoke a web service. Learn the variations between the two approaches, including integration concerns and client choices. Continue Reading
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Feature
02 Nov 2016
Use elicitation techniques to discover software requirements
Discovering project requirements can be challenging. An expert offers elicitation techniques you can use to discover business and software requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
21 Oct 2016
What alternatives to HTTP are there for microservices?
Using HTTP as the bus for traffic between microservices can create some unwanted impacts, including more TCP/IP overhead. Mark Betz goes over some useful alternatives to HTTP. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Sep 2016
Comparing development methodologies: Agile vs. DevOps vs. Lean Startup
It's a confusing, jargon-filled world out there. Expert Christopher Ward brings clarity in part one of a series of articles on the differences between Lean, Agile and DevOps. Continue Reading
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News
14 Sep 2016
Why low-code/no-code platforms are coming to your workplace soon
Suddenly you don't have to code to program. The introduction of low-code/no-code platforms are bringing coding to the masses and showing the biz side how development really works. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Sep 2016
How do I know if my busy QA professionals are actually engaged?
A busy tester seems like a happy tester, but expert Amy Reichert warns that appearances can be deceiving. Here's why you need to be sure your testers are really paying attention. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Aug 2016
When DevOps and requirements gathering techniques collide
Moving from Agile to DevOps? Requirements gathering is a great place to start rethinking and incorporating a high level of collaboration. Expert Christopher Ward explains. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Aug 2016
Where do we draw the line between an iBPM and BPM platform?
What is the difference between iBPM and BPM? Is iBPM simply an extension of the old BPM ways, or is truly something unique? Esther Shein tackles this question. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jun 2016
The basics of establishing a RESTful API testing program
RESTful API testing is about establishing a culture of continuous testing and team accountability. Greg Sypolt reviews the core components of a RESTful API testing program. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Jun 2016
How to keep things on track when building API portfolios
As important as APIs have become, many still fail to achieve API success by not setting goals properly. Tom Nolle explains why this matters and how to manage an API portfolio. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jun 2016
Creating successful RESTful API design
Successful API design requires lots of attention to detail. Take these three steps for creating RESTful API design. Continue Reading
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Tutorial
26 May 2016
Beat hackers with a vulnerability assessment process
Get started on a vulnerability risk assessment process to prevent hacks on data, applications and more. Take these steps to identify vulnerabilities and improve risk management. Continue Reading
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News
19 May 2016
Taking a new look at security in RESTful API design
REST appears to be sure-handedly winning the API war with SOAP, so it's time to start learning about REST security. We explore this protocol's latest security developments. Continue Reading
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Answer
03 May 2016
How do I connect to JSON APIs in an Android project?
In this article, mobile expert Matthew David walks developers through some of the most effective ways to connect to JSON APIs in an Android-based project. Continue Reading
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Tip
02 May 2016
Why you should reconsider using model-driven software development
Model-driven development has been around a long time, but in today's complicated app world, it may be time to give this methodology another look. Expert Tom Nolle explains. Continue Reading
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Tip
20 Apr 2016
What modern test manager responsibilities entail
What does a test manager do? That's not the easiest question to answer, as responsibilities vary. Expert Matt Heusser explains the crux of the role and provides some tips as well. Continue Reading
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Answer
11 Apr 2016
Connecting APIs: How to integrate a JSON framework with iOS
Apple now supports two developmental languages. This means integrating JSON with iOS isn't as difficult as it might seem. Expert Matthew David explains further. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Mar 2016
Six aspects of API creation that greatly impact production
When it comes to API creation, simplicity is critical. Vivek Gupta of AnyPresence discussed the six aspects of API creation developers can address to accelerate API production. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Mar 2016
Developers: Eat your own dog food when you build an API
It's not enough to simply build an API. If you don't "eat your own dog food" before distributing your API, you are setting yourself up for failure. Zachary Flower explains why. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Mar 2016
Microsoft TFS is here for your QA and test management needs
Microsoft TFS offers organizations test management software, which integrates with Visual Studio to help improve communication when putting together software. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Mar 2016
Clover: A code coverage tool that provides meaningful metrics
For organizations looking to augment their software quality assurance testing process, look no further than Atlassian's code coverage tool, Clover. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Mar 2016
What is the DevOps role for operations people?
In a DevOps world, it can be hard to know where Dev ends and Ops starts. Expert Tim Western explains what the various DevOps roles can and should be. Continue Reading
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Tip
08 Mar 2016
Master interrupt testing on mobile devices
Since mobile devices were made to be interrupted, the challenge is to create -- and test -- an app that rolls with it all. Yvette Francino explains how interrupt testing works. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Feb 2016
Five tips for better API versioning and migration
Business needs change, and that often means APIs must change along with them. Here we examine five key strategies for avoiding disaster when API changes must occur. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Feb 2016
How to use Bugzilla bug tracking tool in software testing projects
The Bugzilla bug tracking tool allows DevOps teams to collaborate and report on defects present in apps and software projects in one interactive location. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Feb 2016
What the future of RESTful API design holds for developers
RESTful APIs are slowly being regarded as superior to service-oriented architectures. But what does that mean for architects and developers? Tom Nolle offers his take. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Feb 2016
Consistency is critical in a business rules management system
As much as business rules management can help an organization streamline operations, a general misunderstanding of business rules is hurting efforts. Steve Weissman explains why. Continue Reading
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Tip
23 Dec 2015
Are microservices more like SOA or MVC architecture?
How new is the concept of microservices? Does it compare more closely with the principles of SOA or those of MVC architecture? Chris Riley examines this topic. Continue Reading
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Answer
18 Nov 2015
Do you have to choose between smoke and regression tests?
Software testing options abound. In the battle of smoke versus regression tests, which scenario fits best? Expert Amy Reichert explains how and when to use both for the best results. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Oct 2015
Why should I use a build server?
Because apps can be built on a developer's local machine, some question the usefulness of a build server. However, Brad Irby points out that they provide some distinct advantages. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Oct 2015
Is there a way to automate API code generation?
As useful as APIs are, developers still struggle to create them due to lapses in documentation and specs. Brad Irby explores a tool that can help automate API code generation. Continue Reading
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Opinion
22 Oct 2015
Three traits of a mature Agile team
What it takes to have successful mobile project development might surprise you. Expert Jennifer Lent shares the secrets around creating a mature Agile team. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Oct 2015
Can time management improve productivity of QA testers?
Despite what you might think, time management is possible. Expert Amy Reichert explains how QA testers can stop procrastinating and take charge of their lives. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Sep 2015
Kony Studio: A mobile app development platform
Kony Studio is a mobile app development platform that allows developers to build native or cross-platform apps using a single JavaScript codebase. Continue Reading
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Answer
29 Sep 2015
How do you modernize legacy apps for mobile devices?
Here are several options for incorporating mobile apps as part of a legacy system modernization effort. Approaches include vendor apps and writing APIs. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Sep 2015
Rally Software the go-to ALM tool for Agile developers
Rally Software gives Agile developers an ALM tool that, along with customizable dashboards, offers SAFe training and certification. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Sep 2015
Polarion Software offers compliance-focused ALM
Polarion Software is a browser-based, ALM platform that offers high traceability functions for enterprises with a regulation focus. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Sep 2015
Breaking down the Altassian ALM software suite
With JIRA, Confluence, HipChat, Bitbucket and Stash, the Atlassian ALM software suite is for enterprises of all sizes that use Agile methodologies. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Sep 2015
HP application lifecycle management: What you need to know
The HP application lifecycle management suite, HP ALM, offers on-premises or SaaS ALM tools to enterprises small and large. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Sep 2015
Visual Studio IDE offers many advantages for developers
Microsoft's Visual Studio IDE allows development teams to create apps for multiple Windows 10 mobile and desktop platforms, as well as for iOS and Android. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Sep 2015
Learn more about the Android Studio IDE from Google
Android Studio IDE from Google allows developers to build apps running on mobile, desktop and other emerging technologies running on Android. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Sep 2015
Product owners don't have time to write Agile user stories? You write them.
If the product owner won't or can't write the vital Agile user stories, expert Ben Linders explains how to take on this project yourself. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Aug 2015
Virtual worlds used as business collaboration tools
Consider virtual worlds as legitimate business collaboration tools. Not only might you save travel money, you might spur team creativity and innovation. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Aug 2015
What is the best pattern to use for data persistence?
When designing an application, developers must decide how to implement data persistence. Brad Irby explains which data persistence pattern to consider. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Aug 2015
What is collaboration and why is it important to Agile methodologies?
Agile methodologies stress the benefits of collaboration, working with cross-functional teams to encourage communication between business owners and IT. Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Aug 2015
What are some good suggestions for code refactoring tools?
Code refactoring tools are plentiful, so how do you choose the one that's right for you? Brad Irby explains what to look for when choosing a tool. Continue Reading
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Feature
07 Aug 2015
Your key products for enterprise application integration
Tom Nolle helps you determine which EAI software product is most appropriate for your company. Continue Reading
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Tip
14 Jul 2015
How to implement dependency injection in existing apps
Adapting an existing app to dependency injection is worth the effort, according to an expert. Follow these tips to make the process go smoothly. Continue Reading
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Answer
08 Jul 2015
What are the best ways to prevent refactoring problems?
How do refactoring problems come about, and is there a way to predict them? Contributor Brad Irby has the answers. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Jul 2015
What you need to know about the ALM methodology
Gerie Owen provides an overview of ALM methodology, covering its requirements, development and maintenance phases and its core components. Continue Reading
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Tip
22 Jun 2015
How to test mobile responsive design applications
Two experts offer 10 tips for testing mobile responsive design applications, with or without software requirements. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Jun 2015
Why a COTS package requires testing
Buying COTS systems doesn't necessarily mean security. Learn why COTS testing is needed. Continue Reading
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Answer
21 May 2015
The good and the bad of online discussion forums
What is the value of online discussion forums? This expert sees the good and the bad in online forums. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 May 2015
Beat the risks of managing public, private APIs
Management strategies for private and public APIs should be different. An expert offers best practices for creating effective approaches for each. Continue Reading
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Answer
20 Mar 2015
Define project scope in terms of time, money and quality
We all want our projects to be on budget, on time and of high quality, but not necessarily in that order. What is your advice for balancing these needs? Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Mar 2015
Cache networks for better mobile application performance
Architects find they can improve mobile application performance by leveraging caching networks and new data synchronization protocols. Continue Reading
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Opinion
09 Mar 2015
Agile Manifesto: Both timeless and outdated?
The Agile Manifesto changed the way we look at the software development process. Today, the Manifesto is outdated in some ways and timeless in others. Continue Reading
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Opinion
27 Feb 2015
Three traits of continuous software development
What is 'continuous' in software development? Combining iterative development with automation produces code so quickly it is now thought of as continuous. Continue Reading
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Feature
13 Feb 2015
Cultivating the API Economy
How can hacking be used to make better APIs? Find out the answer and get more API tips in this report from DeveloperWeek 2015. Continue Reading