Software design and development
Software design and development encompasses an array of processes and methodologies. Developers have a lot to manage and will need guidance on how to handle different tasks and projects. Brush up on everything from app-dev approaches such as low code, test- and model-driven development, code refactoring and management practices, UI and UX design, and developer tools.
Top Stories
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Answer
10 Jun 2025
How to choose coding standards: Development best practices
Learn how coding standards enhance quality and efficiency in software projects. Follow coding conventions and standards to achieve the five pillars of code quality. Continue Reading
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Tip
10 Jun 2025
Refactor vs. rewrite: Deciding how to fix 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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News
27 Jan 2023
Efforts to improve memory safety in software gain momentum
Unsafe memory access can cause financial woes for enterprises and personal harm to individuals, experts say, advising enterprises to switch to memory-safe languages. Continue Reading
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Definition
27 Jan 2023
Agile project management (APM)
Agile project management (APM) is an iterative approach to planning and guiding project processes. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2023
OpenSSF GM talks funding, legal software supply chain issues
The OpenSSF leader lays out plans fund open source software supply chain security in a slowing economy and to speak out against the EU's Cyber Resilience Act. Continue Reading
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News
25 Jan 2023
Devs discuss when to use TypeScript vs. JavaScript
TypeScript catches errors at compile time, which benefits developers and users. But the language isn't suitable for every project due to its additional overhead. Continue Reading
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News
24 Jan 2023
Microsoft offers developer guidance on green software tools
Microsoft, UBS and others back developers' use of open source carbon-aware tools. Two case studies -- one enterprise and one academic -- demonstrate green software tools in action. Continue Reading
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Definition
20 Jan 2023
hybrid application (hybrid app)
A hybrid app is a software application that combines elements of both native apps and web applications. Continue Reading
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News
17 Jan 2023
Experts rate programming languages for beginners in 2023
Python and JavaScript are two standouts for novices, according to developer experts. But fledgling coders should diversify their toolbox with newer languages too. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jan 2023
Updates to GitHub Actions add efficiency, risk of friction
GitHub Actions required workflows and configuration variables can reduce duplicate configuration code and shore up policy compliance but may add to developer frustration. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Jan 2023
YAML (YAML Ain't Markup Language)
YAML (YAML Ain't Markup Language) is a data serialization language used as the input format for diverse software applications. Continue Reading
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Feature
10 Jan 2023
What is low-code? A guide to enterprise low-code app development
Learn how low-code concepts and practices code can help enterprise developers be more efficient, create valuable apps more quickly and contribute to broader business initiatives. Continue Reading
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News
09 Jan 2023
AI risks shadow software development security trend
The rise of AI-assisted workflows will facilitate software development security amid growing open source vulnerabilities, but comes with the threat of AI-generated attacks. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Jan 2023
How to validate a Kubernetes manifest
Dev teams must validate Kubernetes manifests. Developers can navigate validation and issues that arise with the help of native and third-party tools and other coding methods. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Jan 2023
source code
Source code is the fundamental component of a computer program that is created by a programmer, often written in the form of functions, descriptions, definitions, calls, methods and other operational statements. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Dec 2022
Compare Go vs. Python: What are the differences?
Golang and Python are both versatile, popular languages, but they have some important differences that developers should take into account when planning software projects. Continue Reading
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News
21 Dec 2022
Prospects unclear for two Nucamp coding boot camp graduates
A coding boot camp can jumpstart a career in tech, but only for those willing to go the extra mile. Here's how two non-developers fared in a four-week web development boot camp. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Dec 2022
stateless app
A stateless app is an application program that does not save client data generated in one session for use in the next session with that client. Continue Reading
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News
16 Dec 2022
Salesforce DevOps Center ships to rein in low-code apps
Salesforce DevOps Center rolled out with features meant to bring low-code and pro-code custom apps on its CRM platform up to date with current software development practices. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2022
Lego site vulnerabilities highlight API security gaps
What's old is new again: Lego site BrickLink was found vulnerable to cross-site scripting and other well-understood types of attacks, intensifying scrutiny on API security. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2022
Tools and techniques to test Kubernetes objects
Kubernetes manifests and objects represent the baseline of code development on the platform. Here's why and how to test these integral elements of Kubernetes. Continue Reading
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News
15 Dec 2022
Spotify Plugins for Backstage aimed at developer productivity
Spotify Plugins for Backstage improves the development environment, but it can also help users tackle the developer shortage, according to one industry expert. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Dec 2022
Best practices for low-code integration within dev pipelines
When a nontechnical team leads the charge on application development, it still falls to developers and testers to integrate low-code tools and apps into the pipeline. Continue Reading
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News
14 Dec 2022
ChatGPT writes code, but won't replace developers
Recent advancements in AI portend the rise of the robot coder. Developers will need new skills to succeed in an AI-based industry, experts say. Continue Reading
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News
13 Dec 2022
Tidelift GC: Paid open source can stave off another Log4j
If the industry wants to thwart software supply chain attacks and prevent another Log4Shell, the way forward is to pay open source maintainers, Tidelift GC Luis Villa says. Continue Reading
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Feature
12 Dec 2022
Creative AI, FinOps among hot developer trends of 2023
Here's a look at the hottest trends for application developers in 2023. Keep an eye out for decentralization, FinOps, consolidation and AI. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Dec 2022
native app
A native application is a software program developers build for use on a particular platform or device. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Dec 2022
truth table
A truth table is a breakdown of all the possible truth values returned by a logical expression. Continue Reading
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Definition
06 Dec 2022
event-driven application
An event-driven application is a computer program written to respond to actions generated by a user or system. Continue Reading
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Definition
02 Dec 2022
logical OR symbol
In mathematics, the logical OR symbol is a Boolean function that is positioned between two statements to indicate an inclusive disjunction between them. Continue Reading
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News
01 Dec 2022
AWS DevOps tools expand low-code features, focus on devx
Many of the features of AWS CodeCatalyst and Application Composer were technically possible before, but the new services package them accessibly via a low-code UI. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Dec 2022
C# (C-Sharp)
C#, pronounced "C-sharp," is an object-oriented programming language from Microsoft that enables developers to build applications that run on the .NET platform. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Nov 2022
Node.js (Node)
Node.js (Node) is an open source, cross-platform runtime environment for executing JavaScript code. Continue Reading
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News
29 Nov 2022
Amazon boosts CodeWhisperer, AI and ML tools
AWS rolled out updates to a series of AI tools and services, highlighted by improvements to its CodeWhisperer coding system and Textract AI service for extracting document text. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Nov 2022
use case
A use case is a methodology used in system analysis to identify, clarify and organize system requirements. Continue Reading
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News
28 Nov 2022
Small open source projects pose significant security risks
Open source security initiatives might prevent large-scale vulnerabilities such as Log4j, but smaller projects pose risks without more maintainer support, industry experts say. Continue Reading
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Definition
28 Nov 2022
debugging
Debugging, in computer programming and engineering, is a multistep process that involves identifying a problem, isolating the source of the problem and then either correcting the problem or determining a way to work around it. Continue Reading
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Tip
28 Nov 2022
How to make and use maps in Golang
Maps are a popular data structure in many programming contexts thanks to their efficiency and speed. But, in Go, some unique features make maps especially useful. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Nov 2022
software toolchain
A software toolchain is a set of software development tools used simultaneously to complete complex software development tasks or to deliver a software product. Continue Reading
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News
21 Nov 2022
Software developer layoffs and hiring freezes on the rise
As tech companies tighten their belts, developers should prepare for a tighter job market by updating resumes and expanding job searches beyond big tech, say industry experts. Continue Reading
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News
21 Nov 2022
Diffblue expands AI-powered unit testing platform
Diffblue Cover is gaining traction amidst a trend toward AI-augmented testing, say industry analysts. Cover can now run a suite of unit tests without developer intervention. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Nov 2022
static testing
Static testing is a software testing method that examines a program -- along with any associated documents -- but does not require the program to be executed. Continue Reading
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News
16 Nov 2022
Atlassian Open DevOps tools stitch together more workflows
As all-in-one DevOps tools vendors grow, Atlassian argues users want choice; customers say third-party tools integration is a timesaver, but the company faces headwinds. Continue Reading
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News
16 Nov 2022
SAP low-code platform looks to fill developer gaps
SAP Build, a new low-code platform that debuted at SAP TechEd, is designed to enable business users to create apps, but it's entering a noisy market and may struggle to find users. Continue Reading
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Definition
16 Nov 2022
widget
In computing, a widget is an element of a graphical user interface that displays information or provides a specific way for a user to interact with the operating system (OS) or an application. Continue Reading
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News
10 Nov 2022
Low-code API management tool fights complexity, with caveats
A new low-code API management tool could bring benefits such as increased speed, fewer coding errors and wider accessibility. But it must prove itself in the market. Continue Reading
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News
09 Nov 2022
GitHub security updates and Copilot expansion make waves
New features unveiled at GitHub Universe include private channels for security issues and Copilot for business, which may fall under a cloud of ongoing litigation. Continue Reading
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News
04 Nov 2022
Go updates to tackle pain points, but Golang 2 is dead
Go Day 2022 highlights include possible Go updates to tackle compatibility, security and developer pain points such as for-loop scoping. But Golang 2 will never happen. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Nov 2022
NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology)
NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) is a nonregulatory government agency located in Gaithersburg, Md. Continue Reading
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News
03 Nov 2022
Pega CTO: Ethical AI for developers demands transparency
Pegasystems CTO Don Schuerman believes the cure for AI's ethical issues lies in broad data inputs, being sensitive to biases and algorithms that make explainable decisions. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Nov 2022
operand
In computing and mathematics, an operand is an object that is operated on by some type of operator. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Nov 2022
Sustainable software needs more tools, corporate buy-in
Several tools can help developers build sustainable software, but it won't make a dent in carbon emissions without organizational support and better monitoring tools. Continue Reading
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News
27 Oct 2022
API documentation can make or break developer experience
At this week's API World, experts highlight issues with poor API documentation and suggest ways to fix it, such as ditching jargon and adopting the OpenAPI Specification. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Oct 2022
user experience
User experience (UX) design is the process and practice used to design and implement a product that will provide positive and relevant interactions with users. Continue Reading
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News
24 Oct 2022
Developers want improved performance, efficiency in Java 20
Java 20 will likely include useful features such as improvements to concurrency and profiling, but the incremental updates are unlikely to please everyone. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Oct 2022
What Golang generics support means for code structure
Generics are a relatively recent addition to the strongly and statically typed Go language. Learn the benefits of using generics in Golang and how to get started. Continue Reading
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News
20 Oct 2022
Developers warned: GitHub Copilot code may be licensed
Questions surround GitHub Copilot's use of open source code, but it's a Supreme Court decision on Warhol's art that developers should keep an eye on, according to one legal expert. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Oct 2022
freeware
Freeware (not to be confused with free software) is a type of proprietary software that is released without charge to the public. Continue Reading
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News
18 Oct 2022
Oracle CloudWorld rollout includes new serverless options
New Oracle Cloud Infrastructure serverless offerings hide more of the gory infrastructure details from application developers to hasten software delivery workflows. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Oct 2022
software development kit (SDK)
A software development toolkit (SDK) is a set of software tools and programs provided by hardware and software vendors that developers can use to build applications for specific platforms. Continue Reading
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Definition
17 Oct 2022
pipe
In computer programming, especially in Unix operating systems (OSes), a pipe is a technique for passing information from one program process or command to another. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Oct 2022
What IT pros need to know about low-code limitations
Low-code environments promise to simplify and speed up software development, but their limitations can create challenges for enterprise IT. Compare models for low-code adoption. Continue Reading
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News
03 Oct 2022
EvolveWare feature adds agility to application modernization
EvolveWare's Intellisys gives enterprises a business rules extraction option that won't lock up legacy or modernized applications when code changes are required. Continue Reading
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Definition
30 Sep 2022
logical implication
Logical implication is a type of relationship between two statements or sentences. The relation translates verbally into 'logically implies' or the logical connective 'if/then' and is symbolized by a double-lined arrow pointing toward the right (=>). Continue Reading
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Definition
29 Sep 2022
synchronous/asynchronous API
Synchronous/asynchronous APIs are application programming interfaces that return data for requests either immediately or at a later time, respectively. Continue Reading
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News
28 Sep 2022
Intel SDKs give developers tools for AI, quantum software
Intel launched new SDKs for AI and quantum computing and added tools underpinned by the Intel Developer Cloud in an effort to attract developers to build on its hardware. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Sep 2022
Explore the pros and cons of Go for DevOps
Author and Docker engineer Teiva Harsanyi explains the benefits of Golang -- including why he sees it as the future of back-end development -- and how to avoid common pitfalls. Continue Reading
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News
22 Sep 2022
IT pros pan government software supply chain security advice
As the prospect of federally mandated SBOM drives up usage of the software supply chain security tech, the government's documentation so far adds to risky confusion, experts say. Continue Reading
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Definition
19 Sep 2022
What are attributes in computing?
In general, an attribute is a property, quality, or characteristic that something or someone has. Continue Reading
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Feature
15 Sep 2022
Experts: 3 trends in software development worth following
Trends come and go, but AIOps and MLOps, spatial computing, and a low-code and high-code toolkit are the future of software development, industry experts say. Continue Reading
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News
14 Sep 2022
AutoRabit tool seeks to simplify Salesforce security for DevOps
OrgScan extends CodeScan's security scanning ability in Salesforce. CodeScan Shield aims to simplify security for devs as the trend to shift left continues, industry analysts say. Continue Reading
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News
13 Sep 2022
COBOL application modernization tools and techniques
COBOL code modernization options range from a simple, yet expensive, application re-write to automated tools that can convert code and extract business rules. Continue Reading
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News
29 Aug 2022
Heroku to end free tiers, creating platform void for devs
Heroku will cease offering its free tiers this November, leaving developers to choose from an array of alternatives that don't quite match up, according to industry experts. Continue Reading
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News
26 Aug 2022
Intel's Wei Li on low-code/no-code AI and sentience
Wei Li, Intel's vice president and general manager of AI and analytics, outlines how low-code/no-code AI can help developers and chimes in on the sentient AI debate. Continue Reading
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Definition
26 Aug 2022
Java string
A Java string is a sequence of characters that exists as an object of the class java.lang. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 Aug 2022
lexical scoping (static scoping)
Lexical scoping, also known as static scoping, is a convention used with many modern programming languages. Continue Reading
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News
24 Aug 2022
PyPI phishing renews call for mandatory 2FA, package signing
Some developers view compulsory 2FA and package signing as a threat to productivity, but industry experts say such requirements are inevitable amid ongoing cyberattacks. Continue Reading
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News
24 Aug 2022
Low-code platforms create call for business-savvy developers
The rising popularity of low-code platforms may mark a decline for coding as a job priority, but demand is up for developers with a strong grasp of business knowledge, say experts. Continue Reading
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Definition
23 Aug 2022
logical negation symbol
The logical negation symbol is used in Boolean algebra to indicate that the truth value of the statement that follows is reversed. Continue Reading
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Definition
18 Aug 2022
vertical bar
The vertical bar ( | ) is a symbol used in mathematics, computing and other areas to represent a specific type of logic or operation, depending on its context. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2022
operation (computing)
An operation, in computing, is an action that is carried out to accomplish a given task. Continue Reading
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News
12 Aug 2022
Kubernetes training, tech can tackle orchestration pain
DevOps can force developers to work outside their comfort zone and create frustration, but the right Kubernetes training and tools can ease the burden. Continue Reading
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Definition
12 Aug 2022
software testing
Software testing is the process of assessing the functionality of a software program. Continue Reading
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News
11 Aug 2022
How CI/CD pipelines are putting enterprise networks at risk
At Black Hat USA 2022, NCC Group researchers demonstrated how threat actors can compromise CI/CD pipelines and break out into enterprise networks and cloud environments. Continue Reading
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News
10 Aug 2022
COBOL programming skills gap thwarts modernization to Java
The challenge of migrating COBOL applications to run in the cloud is made nearly impossible with tricky line-to-line conversions and a lack of developers with the right skills. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Aug 2022
menu
A menu is a set of options presented to the user of a computer application to help them find information or execute a function. Continue Reading
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Definition
08 Aug 2022
fuzzy search
A fuzzy search is a technique that uses search algorithms to find strings that match patterns approximately. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Aug 2022
WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get)
WYSIWYG (pronounced wiz-ee-wig) is a type of editing software that allows users to see and edit content in a form that appears as it would when displayed on an interface, webpage, slide presentation or printed document. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Aug 2022
Bootstrap
Bootstrap is a free, open source front-end development framework for the creation of websites and web apps. Continue Reading
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Definition
01 Aug 2022
green software
Green software, also known as sustainable software, is software that is designed, developed and implemented to limit energy consumption and have minimal environmental impact. Continue Reading
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News
29 Jul 2022
Developer search engine for code snippets comes with caveats
The YouCode search engine gives developers a fast way to find code snippets. But, like any code completion tool, results should be taken with a grain of salt. Continue Reading
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News
28 Jul 2022
CircleCI and GitLab integration expands DevOps tool choices
CircleCI expands code repository choices, benefitting mutual customers of the highly optimized platform, say industry analysts. Continue Reading
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News
26 Jul 2022
Shadow cast over future of Google's C++ replacement
A C++ replacement is long overdue, but Google's experimental language, Carbon, is far from a perfect solution, some industry experts say. Continue Reading
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News
22 Jul 2022
Developers beware: AI pair programming comes with pitfalls
Despite the promise of faster coding, AI pair programming has a host of pitfalls, including inapplicable code suggestions, security flaws and copyright issues. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jul 2022
A quick glance at the history of C programming languages
Since C hit the scene in 1972, the language has continuously evolved to stay relevant in modern development. We examine C's history and why it's still relevant. Continue Reading
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News
15 Jul 2022
Consultancy benefits from green coding certification mandate
In this Q&A, GFT CTO Dean Clark details how his company's green coding certification program is bringing benefits beyond higher-quality, more efficient code. Continue Reading
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News
14 Jul 2022
Developer shortage fuels rise in low-code/no-code platforms
Halfway through 2022, interest in low-code/no-code platforms is not slowing down. Experts say the developer shortage is one of the biggest factors as companies continue to invest. Continue Reading
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News
12 Jul 2022
New JavaScript runtime Bun challenges Deno, Node.js
Beta release of JavaScript runtime Bun promises to speed up development with an array of out-of-the box features. Continue Reading
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Feature
08 Jul 2022
No-code API tools for Excel wrangle data
Tampa-based Vault Insurance struggled with analyzing spreadsheets at scale until it purchased spreadsheet-to-API software Coherent Spark. 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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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