Programmer - Tasks and specialisations
Kaitito Pūmanawa Rorohiko
Tasks & duties
Programmers may do some or all of the following:
- discuss the client's requirements
- work out the design specifications
- plan how the programs will fit together
- write programs
- run tests to ensure programs and computer systems are working properly
- identify faults in programs
- prepare reports on the uses of programs
- maintain and upgrade programs
- build prototypes to tender for new business
- assist sales staff with estimates or prototypes
- keep track of hours spent working on projects.
Programmers Gareth Philpott and Nick Hill working on program enhancements
Computer game programmer Craig Furness testing a game prototype
Photo courtesy of Adrienne Pitts and Sidhe Interactive
Specialisations
Programmers can specialise in the development, maintenance, enhancement or testing of programs and software. They can work in a range of areas including:
- computer games
- film, and animation
- telecommunications
- Internet work.
Updated
September 2009
