Technology has its roots grounded in almost all fields. Application of its methods in business has turned tables altogether. Years ago, who would have thought that transactions could be fast and easy right at the comfort of the couch? But today, it’s just a matter of seconds. If an app is developed to avail products and services to consumers, it’s a win-win situation. Business operations are simplified and customers enjoy convenience. Here are 8 Most Important Roles in Software Development Team Structure.
Behind every successful man is a woman. Consequently, behind every successful project is a team. The CEO could be all smiles at the software’s launch, but much of the work was done backstage. From the conceptualization of the idea to the final product, some brainy people worked together. They probably drank many mugs of coffee to keep awake, attended frequent impromptu meetings and did thorough research to ensure the development of an authentic application.
Unity is at the core of any team. Though working in different capacities, their input is interdependent. The side mirror is relatively small as compared to the tire. But does it mean that it’s less significant? How can a driver successfully overtake another vehicle without it? Undoubtedly, it’s a necessary part. On the other hand, tires enable the car to move forward. Therefore, both parts are essential. Similarly, team members may perform different tasks but all contribute to the end product. This article identifies the people who are involved in software development and explains their roles.
- Product owner
This individual has a clear picture of what should be developed and its significance in the business. Knowing the company’s objectives, he ensures the features fit in with them. He also communicates the functionality of the software to team players since that’s the backbone of the design process.
- Project manager
Order is required for successful completion of the task. The project manager is the main man here. He creates schedules, determines the scope of the work and ensures resources are maximized. Also, he solves barriers encountered in the process. For example, if others lose morale, he motivates them.
Risks are inevitable regardless of the undertaking. Therefore, project managers take action to counteract incurred risks.
- Business analyst
This member ensures business and technical requirements are documented. This helps the team remain focused on its goals. Additionally, he is involved in project definition and testing of solutions as per the stated objectives.
- Project financier
How smooth will the process flow if there are inadequate funds? That’s why a financier is required. He provides resources as per the budget as well as funding unforeseen costs incurred.
Since money can fuel conflicts, the project sponsor needs to be tactful in settling such disputes. This critical position should be entrusted to a transparent person to avoid fund embezzlement.
- Designers
They are at the core of the whole process. They turn abstract ideas into visible things.
User Interface (UI)
The UI professionals are responsible for the general appearance of the application. They ensure the graphic design chosen has the company’s theme colors and appropriate font. Additionally, the designers build menus and buttons. Available templates can be customized to suit client needs. The app will then be easily associated with the business.
User Experience (UX)
The new application might be attractive but will it be of any help if it’s difficult to navigate? Certainly not. Those handling this part ensure simplicity as users interact with the app. They continuously make improvements to enhance user experience and to be at par with existing competition.
- Team lead
This position has little to do with experience. Instead, he should be more of a leader. His role has to do with ensuring effective communication between the client and the software development team.
Members will rub each other the wrong way from time to time. The team leader’s input makes conflict resolution possible.
- Developers
Whenever you hear of IT the next thing that probably comes into your mind is coding. In the software development team, developers are the masterminds that handle coding. They are knowledgeable in programming languages such as Javascript.
Frontend developers
They are responsible for the optimization of web pages for maximum speed. You wouldn’t want a lagging app, would you? They develop apps that are compatible with mobile phones in addition to coding the UX and UI designs.
Backend developers
They work shoulder to shoulder with the frontend developers to ensure their coding systems are complementary. Another role they play is maintenance of the app’s functionality and ensure data security. With cybercrime on the increase, personal information of customers should be confidential.
- Quality assurance professional
Errors can occur anywhere and even experienced software developers might have to rectify some areas. As their name implies, they examine the app’s quality. They ensure any existing bugs are removed as they interfere with the users’ experience.
Other aspects that undergo scrutiny are security, portability and performance. These are some key features that can’t be overlooked since they have a huge bearing on end-product quality.
Some software development teams might exclude a QA engineer. However, the malfunctions that occur later could lead to loss of revenue. If they had included the QA professional, the undesirable outcome could have been avoided.
The bottom line
When you are online browsing through the endless list of suitable applications, be assured that it took more than one man to develop it. The intricate and interdependent system of professionals is behind the scenes to provide the best they can. Each of them has a unique yet important role in the process.
Companies may choose to have an internal software development team or outsource one. The structure of most Scrum development teams include the eight roles we have discussed. Now that you are aware of the software development process, carefully evaluate your business objectives then make an informed decision. Move a notch higher than your competitors. A little innovation might be all you need to move your business to the desired position. Get an efficient software development team and begin your journey to success.
