Jobs in Tech: The Need for Creativity in Software Development

Artist, writer, poet, animator, musician.

When you think of creative careers, your mind might first jump to something on the list above. But many jobs in tech also demand a high level of creativity. This certainly includes software development, which requires a lot of creativity to do the job well.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recognized the need for creativity in software development when it included Creativity on the list of the profession’s Important Qualities. According to the BLS, software developers “must be innovative in their approaches to designing, identifying problems with, and improving computer software.”

In this post, learn about three ways software developers use creativity on the job.

Jobs in Tech: 3 Ways Software Developers Use Creativity on the Job 

1. Problem-Solving  

Creativity is often associated with artistic pursuits. But creativity is more wide-ranging than just that. It’s also firmly rooted in the ability to solve problems. People who are inventors, entrepreneurs, leaders, coaches, doctors, and engineers are all creative when they identify problems and figure out solutions.

In software development, this could occur when something hasn’t been done before and you need a unique software solution – or when something has been done before, but requires a new approach, edit, or method that will make it longer-lasting (for your future self or others who use the software after you).

In development, things change often. Technology evolves, company goals shift, and customer behavior can morph. You and your teammates should approach each issue with an open mind, ready to find solutions specific to the changes that come your way.

2. Curiosity 

Creativity and curiosity are often linked. In some creative careers (artist, writer, etc.), it helps to be curious about everything, including topics, themes, and subjects that you could use for your work. In software development, the same link exists. Creativity, infused with a consistent dose of curiosity, is just as critical a combination to a software developer as it is to a painter or musician.

Creative software developers are curious about how things work, recent technological updates, the newest AI productivity tools being used on the job, and shifts in the popularity and use of programming languages, among other things. Their appetite for new information and learning is insatiable!

3. Collaborative Mindset 

Teamwork also requires creativity, and it’s an important part of the development process. A lot of creative thinking happens at the beginning of a project when ideas are conceived, refined, and finalized. This can happen individually or in a team setting when people can bounce ideas off each other and think things through together.

Additionally, as a project launches and continues, developers often need to find creative ways to engage with team members to achieve the best possible results. This type of leadership and team-building can go a long way in encouraging others to collaborate and think creatively, too, which helps the team reach its goals more effectively.

Consider a Career in Software Development!

Software development requires creativity in thought, approach, and technical work. In my own career, my previous experience in writing and creative consulting directly impacts my current role as Senior Director of Career Development at Tech Elevator.

If you’re also a creative person who wants to explore an exciting job in tech, check out our coding bootcamps. You can get started with a quick, 5-question Aptitude Test!

 

 

Written by Vinny Sanfillipo,
Senior Director, Career Development