Growth-focused software developers are looking to rapidly scale their work in preparation for the next stage of technology innovation. The software engineering sector is one of the fastest growing technology markets in the entire world. In the next five years, the industry is forecasted to grow at an annual CAGR of nearly six-percent. Already, the field is valued at over $600 Billion in 2022. With rapid growth considered normal in the industry, proactive engineers need to constantly innovate to stay ahead. As a developer yourself, this empowers you to future proof your skillset and challenge yourself with a continuous learning curve. Plus, you'll be able to keep up with the hundreds of workers that are also looking to stand out in the market. Read on to learn about the software developers scaling for the next stage of tech innovation. 

Learning Cross-Platform Development

To build a future-proofed, transferrable skillset, today's software engineers need to quickly learn cross-platform development. Today's best software is build to seamlessly operate across different operating systems (OS), environments, and platforms. More than ever, users rely on different iOS, Android, Windows, and Linux devices to engage with custom software. This means developers must be capable of building applications that support multiple platforms with a centralized, unified codebase. Otherwise, their skillsets will become obsolete in the next few years. That being said, cross-platform building skills can have a huge financial and opportunity impact on today's custom engineers. Certainly, software developers are learning cross-platform programming to be successful in the future of technology. 

Fortifying Application Security

In 2022, application security has become a top-priority for today's future-focused development teams. Programmers are always looking for new processes, tools, strategies, and technologies to help fortify system-wide security. Prominently, many teams are using JFrog Xray to conduct software composition analysis (SCA) and deliver trusted releases faster. With this dependable SCA solution, teams can defend the entire software supply chain - extending from release to delivery. They can also employ this functionality to achieve DevOps speed compliance. Surely, proactive software developers are prioritizing application security to stand out in the future. 

Building AI-Powered Algorithms

Software developers are placing a heavier priority on automated, AI algorithms in 2022. Programmers are learning to write artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms that streamline repetitive tasks. This gives them more time to work on complicated tasks and unleash their creativity. These algorithms empower software that is utilized across multiple different industries - including healthcare, manufacturing, and enterprise business. Writing these algorithms, teams can facilitate faster project decisions, ensure 24/7 operations, and enable digital assistance. At the same time, these solutions help to reduce human error, which saves lots of time and money throughout the SDLC. Indeed, building AI powered algorithms are helping software developers prepare themselves for the future of technology innovation. Some rely on free resources, while others prefer traditional education methods such as certificate programs or graduate degrees in Artificial Intelligence in order to stay on the cusp of the technology and how it can be implemented within whatever sectors they work in. 

Mastering New Programming Languages

More, versatile development teams are learning how to code software with new, notable programming languages. Learning different coding frameworks helps developers grow their skillset, work on different projects, and troubleshoot different types of applications. In 2022, some of the most popular languages are Python, JavaScript, and Google's Golang. In addition, Objective C, Java, and Rust are also widely-used for building software products. If you are more interested in mobile app engineering, consider mastering OS-specific languages like Kotlin and Swift. Absolutely, mastering new programming languages is a great way to improve versatility and grow as a software developer. 

Following The Latest Trends

As the industry continues to grow, expand, and innovate, software developers need to stay aligned with the latest industry trends. It is impossible to accurately predict the future. So, today's developers need to keep up with tech news, current events, and breakthrough strategies. This helps them continue to innovate and grow professionally. Pay attention to exciting topics on developer community boards and forms as well. You may even want to follow some renowned software engineers on social media. Definitely, following the latest trends is another highly-effective way to grow and scale as a software engineer. 

Software developers are scaling their efforts for the next stage of innovation in several notable ways. First off, advanced programming teams are learning cross-platform development to build a future-proof, transferrable skillset. In addition, programmers are always exploring new ways to fortify application security across the software supply chain. Many developers are also continuing to utilize AI-powered algorithms to simplify processes, accelerate release, and remove human error. It may also help to learn new programming languages and frameworks. Further, follow the latest trends and industry breakthroughs. Follow the points highlighted above to learn about the software developers scaling for the next stage of tech innovation.