Version Control Management
Version Control Management is the skillful orchestration of tracking and controlling changes to software code. This critical capability includes understanding different version control systems and methodologies, implementing streamlined workflows, and resolving conflicts swiftly and accurately. This capability bolsters accuracy, ensures code integrity and streamlines project progress, leading to efficient and successful software development outcomes.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to use basic version control commands to save, update and share code within your team. You follow established processes to add or retrieve files, check for updates, and resolve simple issues under guidance. This helps maintain code accuracy and keeps your work in sync with the rest of the team.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are starting to use version control systems in your daily work and following basic workflows like branching and merging. You seek guidance when you encounter code conflicts and are learning to resolve them with supervision. Your growing skills help keep your team’s code organized and reduce errors.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are confident using version control systems to manage code changes across multiple branches and team members. You resolve merge conflicts efficiently and maintain a clear project history, ensuring everyone can collaborate smoothly. This means your projects stay organized, and you help safeguard code quality throughout the development lifecycle.
Unit Testing
Unit Testing is a fundamental practice within Software Development. It requires a methodical approach to scrutinising each function or procedure in a module for robustness and reliability. This rigorous testing, underpinned by a strong understanding of coding and defect identification, ensures quality and formulates the foundation for larger testing frameworks.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to write simple unit tests for your own code, using established tools and frameworks as guided. You follow basic instructions to check that individual functions work as expected and record any issues you find. Your work supports the reliability of software by helping catch errors early in development.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are starting to write basic unit tests for your code with guidance from others. You can identify simple defects and understand the importance of testing each function or procedure. Your contribution helps improve the reliability of your team’s software, laying groundwork for more advanced testing practices.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are developing and maintaining thorough unit tests for your code, identifying issues early and ensuring reliability before moving to broader testing. You write clear, effective tests that cover typical use cases and edge conditions. Your approach improves software quality and builds confidence in the codebase for your team.
Technical Documentation
Technical Documentation is the ability to produce detailed and user-friendly instructions that guide software users and technology teams. Within the software development realm, it involves writing clear, accessible guidance on how the software operates, supporting both testing and user requirements. Mastery of this capability enables improved software performance, effective updates, and helps software users optimize their application usage.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to create simple technical documents that explain basic software features and processes clearly. You follow existing templates and seek feedback to make sure your instructions are accurate and easy to understand. This helps team members and users complete standard tasks with confidence.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to create basic technical documentation that outlines key software features and simple processes. You seek guidance to ensure accuracy and clarity, and your work helps team members understand and use the software for routine tasks. Your documentation contributes to smoother project handovers and supports day-to-day troubleshooting.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to create clear, structured technical documentation that meets the needs of both software users and your development team. You draw on your understanding of the software to explain processes, features and troubleshooting steps in a way that is accessible and practical. Your documentation actively supports smooth updates, testing, and confident user adoption.
Maintenance and Support
Maintenance and Support' is the ability to provide technical assistance, rectify software issues and implement enhancements post-deployment. In the context of software development, this involves possessing a deep understanding of the coding languages used, product architecture, and potential usage scenarios. The impact of this capability is to enhance user experience, ensuring software reliability and continual improvement.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to follow set procedures to identify and report basic software issues after deployment. You seek help to troubleshoot problems and apply simple updates under guidance, building your understanding of the codebase and user needs. Your support ensures routine maintenance tasks are completed, helping keep the software stable for users.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to follow established procedures to resolve straightforward software issues and support users with basic tasks after deployment. You ask for guidance when facing unfamiliar problems, and you’re learning how the product is built and used. Your efforts help keep the software stable for everyday functions.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to troubleshoot and resolve software issues with minimal supervision, drawing on a sound understanding of code, system architecture, and user needs. You actively identify opportunities to improve software stability and performance after release. Your work ensures users experience fewer disruptions and ongoing improvements.
System Design
System Design is the ability to conceptualise and outline software solutions, involving intricate problem-solving and planning skills. It requires a thorough understanding of how various system components interact to achieve a specific goal. Excellence in this capability drives efficient, scalable software applications that meet user needs and business objectives.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are beginning to understand how simple software components work together to solve basic problems. You need guidance to create or interpret straightforward system designs, focusing mainly on learning key concepts. Your growing understanding helps you start contributing to well-structured software alongside more experienced team members.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to contribute to system design by assisting with outlining software components and understanding how they fit together. You apply basic problem-solving to small, well-defined tasks and learn from feedback on your design ideas. Your work supports team delivery and helps build scalable, reliable applications.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to design effective software systems that balance technical requirements and user needs. You produce clear designs for moderately complex projects, considering scalability, maintainability, and integration points. Your work helps teams build reliable solutions that align with business goals.
Solution Architecture
Solution Architecture is the process of designing and defining solutions to meet software project goals. In the context of Software Development, it translates business requirements into technology requirements. This capability shapes the direction and quality of software solutions, impacting efficiency and project outcomes.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are learning how business needs become technical solutions, with guidance from others. You recognize basic solution architecture concepts and can follow established designs in your software development work. Your understanding helps you see how thoughtful design decisions support effective and reliable project outcomes.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to contribute to the design of software solutions by interpreting business requirements and assisting with basic technical decisions. You support more experienced architects by preparing documentation and participating in discussions about solution options. Your input helps the team align technology choices with project needs, improving the fit and quality of delivered solutions.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to design effective solution architectures for moderately complex software projects, ensuring business needs are met with practical, scalable technology choices. You confidently interpret requirements and align your designs with organizational standards. Your input helps deliver reliable solutions that support team productivity and project success.
Software Requirements Analysis
Software Requirements Analysis is a critical step in the software development process. This capability involves efficiently gathering, understanding, verifying, and communicating the user's needs and expectations, in order to define precise functional requirements. It requires strong analytical skills, keen attention to detail, and an aptitude for clear communication. Its value lies in ensuring the developed software meets user expectations and business objectives.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to assist with gathering and documenting basic user needs under supervision. You can follow established processes to record requirements clearly and check for understanding with your team. By supporting the requirements analysis process, you help ensure that software development starts with accurate, agreed information.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to assist in gathering and documenting basic software requirements under guidance. You contribute to discussions by clarifying user needs and asking relevant questions, helping ensure requirements are clear and accurate. Your growing attention to detail supports the development of software that aligns with user expectations.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to gather, clarify, and document software requirements with minimal supervision, ensuring they are clear and aligned with user and business needs. You reliably translate feedback into well-defined requirements and work closely with technical teams to address ambiguities. This strengthens the quality and relevance of your project outcomes.
Software Release Management
Software Release Management is the careful orchestration of deploying software changes into a live environment. In the context of software development, it requires comprehensive knowledge of version control systems, deployment tools, and quality assurance. The impact of effective release management can streamline processes, reduce errors, ensure high-quality software production and bolster the overall efficiency of the software development lifecycle.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to support basic software release tasks by following clear instructions and using approved tools. You understand the importance of accurate version control and careful deployment, working under supervision to help deliver changes safely. Your attention to detail helps prevent simple errors and supports the reliability of software releases.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to support software releases by following established processes and using basic version control and deployment tools with guidance. You work with your team to coordinate routine deployments and help maintain the quality and stability of software releases. Your efforts help reduce simple mistakes and contribute to smoother delivery cycles.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to coordinate and execute software releases effectively, ensuring they are delivered on time and with minimal disruption. You apply sound practices across version control, deployment, and quality checks to support smooth transitions to live environments. Your approach reduces release errors and helps your team maintain reliable, high-quality software.
Secure Coding
Secure Coding is the practice of developing software in a way that safeguards against security vulnerabilities. It entails knowledge of potential threats and the skills to prevent these through efficient and effective code design. Secure coding not only boosts the software's quality and reliability but also confidence in its safety.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are aware of basic secure coding principles and recognize the importance of protecting software from common security threats. You follow clear guidelines set by your team and ask for help when dealing with unfamiliar security risks. Your attention to secure coding supports your team’s overall software safety and reliability.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to apply basic secure coding practices within your software development work. You can recognize common security risks and follow established guidelines to help prevent issues, often with guidance from others. Your contributions help your team deliver software that is more reliable and secure.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are consistently writing code that avoids common security flaws and adheres to secure coding standards. You identify and address security risks during the development process, and guide your team in applying best practices. Your work helps reduce vulnerabilities and strengthens the trust users have in the software.
Platform Compatibility Testing
Platform Compatibility Testing is a critical software development capability, ensuring a product operates accurately across various environments. It involves the knowledge and capability to conduct tests on multiple platforms, including hardware, operating systems, and browsers. The effective behavior includes meticulousness in identifying inconsistencies, thereby enhancing user experience and product reliability.'
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to follow given instructions to conduct basic compatibility tests across standard platforms under supervision. You recognize obvious issues and accurately report them for further investigation. Your attention to detail helps the team spot early inconsistencies, supporting smoother product development and a better user experience.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to follow prescribed steps to test software across a limited set of platforms, noting any obvious issues or inconsistencies. You rely on support to identify less visible compatibility problems or to extend testing beyond standard environments. Your efforts help ensure basic reliability for users in common setups.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to independently test software across different platforms, identifying and documenting compatibility issues with accuracy. You know how to select suitable test environments and adapt testing approaches for operating systems, devices, and browsers. Your work helps ensure users experience consistent, reliable performance, reducing risk and support issues.
Performance optimization
Performance optimization is the process of modifying a software system to make it work more efficiently. This involves a deep understanding of algorithms, data structures and programming languages. A capabilityed performance optimiser can reduce resource consumption, enhancing the system's speed and capacity, thus improving user experience and system reliability.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are aware that making software run efficiently is important and can recognize basic signs of slow or resource-heavy code. You follow standard coding practices to avoid obvious performance issues, and seek guidance when faced with more complex problems. Your actions help maintain acceptable application speed and reliability for everyday use.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are starting to identify areas where your code can run more efficiently, applying basic techniques to improve speed or reduce resource use. You follow guidance from others to make small improvements and learn from feedback. Your efforts help your team spot and address obvious performance issues.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to identify and resolve common performance bottlenecks in software systems with minimal supervision. You use proven techniques to improve speed and efficiency, considering the impact on user experience and reliability. Your optimisations deliver measurable improvements to the way applications run in real-world settings.
API Development
API Development is the process of designing, creating, and implementing application programming interfaces. It involves understanding the user needs and creating functional elements for smooth software-to-software communication. Through this capability, developers ensure seamless data exchange and improve the overall software’s flexibility and functionality.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to follow established patterns and guidelines to assist in basic API development tasks, such as making or testing simple API calls. You rely on direction from others to complete your work and are learning how APIs connect software systems. Your contributions help ensure that software components start to communicate effectively.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to create basic APIs with guidance, following set patterns and using established tools. You contribute to simple API features that support structured data exchange between software components. Your work helps the team by enabling straightforward integrations and supporting the reliability of more complex systems.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to design, build, and document APIs that meet both technical and user needs, applying standard protocols and best practices. You confidently troubleshoot and update existing APIs to improve reliability and performance. Your work enables smooth connections between software systems, making business processes more flexible and efficient.
Integration Testing
Integration Testing is a crucial aspect in the software development field, particularly in validating a system's effectiveness. This capability involves meticulous testing of combined individual modules to evaluate their interaction and cohesiveness. The impact of successful integration testing results in flawless operation, reduction of bugs, and improved end-user experience.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to follow detailed guidance to run basic integration tests on combined software modules. You can identify simple issues in how modules interact, asking for help when needed. This helps your team catch obvious problems early and supports a smoother development process.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are starting to apply integration testing to check how different software modules work together. You follow established test plans and escalate issues when combined components do not interact as expected. This helps you contribute to reduced errors and smoother collaboration within your development team.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to design and execute thorough integration tests, ensuring that combined modules work together as intended within complex software systems. You confidently identify and resolve issues that arise from module interactions, leading to fewer defects and a better experience for users. Your efforts contribute to reliable, high-quality software delivery.
Incident Resolution
Incident Resolution is the ability to systematically analyze and troubleshoot software discrepancies that disrupt the system's operations. This involves utilising diagnostic methods and repairing code to restore expected functionality. With proficient Incident Resolution, developers can minimize downtime and improve system reliability, resulting in enhanced user satisfaction and trust in the software product.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to recognize when a software issue is affecting system operations and seek guidance to begin investigating the problem. You follow established procedures to collect information and support basic troubleshooting under supervision. Your actions help the team restore functionality while you build confidence in handling incidents.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to follow standard procedures to help investigate and resolve incidents that affect software performance. You identify obvious issues and assist in restoring normal operations, often with guidance from more experienced team members. Your efforts help reduce minor disruptions and support system reliability as you gain hands-on experience.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to quickly identify, investigate, and resolve software incidents that affect system performance or availability. You use proven diagnostic approaches to address a range of common and complex issues, working efficiently under pressure. Your actions minimize disruption and build confidence in the reliability of your team's software.
Debugging
Debugging is the systematic process of identifying and rectifying errors in software codes. This capability requires strong analytical skills, substantial knowledge of programming languages, and familiarity with debugging tools. Effective debugging ensures the development of reliable and efficient software, significantly improving user experience and system performance.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to recognize basic errors in your own code by following clear steps or using simple debugging tools. You seek help when needed and learn from more experienced colleagues to understand common issues. This helps you build confidence and write more reliable code as you develop your skills.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to spot and fix straightforward errors in software code, with some guidance from others. You use basic debugging tools and techniques, building your confidence and accuracy as you go. Your efforts help to reduce small issues early, contributing to smoother project progress.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to efficiently identify, analyze, and resolve complex coding errors using standard debugging tools and techniques. You consistently approach issues methodically, recognizing patterns and tracing problems across different parts of the code. Your reliable debugging helps deliver quality software, reducing downtime and enhancing user satisfaction.
Continuous Integration
Continuous Integration is the practice of merging developers' changes to a shared repository frequently, ideally daily. It involves automated testing to quickly uncover problems and ensure seamless software development. This capability reduces errors and enhances collaboration, promoting the consistent production of high-quality software.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are aware of the purpose and basic steps of continuous integration in software development. You follow set procedures to merge code and run automated tests, seeking guidance as needed. This helps your team identify issues early and maintain the quality of your shared codebase.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are starting to use Continuous Integration by merging your code into a shared repository and running automated tests with some guidance. You understand the importance of identifying issues early and cooperate with your team to improve build reliability. This helps you contribute to smoother development and reduce unexpected errors in your work.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are consistently integrating your code changes into the shared repository and running automated tests to catch issues early. You confidently identify and help resolve integration problems, supporting team members to maintain a smooth and reliable build process. Your work ensures that software is more stable and team delivery is more predictable.
Continuous Deployment
Continuous Deployment is the ability to deliver software changes to user-facing applications swiftly and reliably. It entails designing and implementing automated deployment practices, reducing error margin and downtime. This robust capability set promises efficient product delivery, potentially leading to improved user experience and customer satisfaction.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are learning about automated deployment and how changes reach users quickly and safely. You follow established processes for continuous deployment with guidance from others, asking questions when you’re unsure. Your careful approach helps maintain smooth releases while you build confidence and understanding of best practices.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are starting to use automated deployment tools to release code changes with guidance from more experienced team members. You follow established practices and begin to recognize how reliable deployments support faster delivery and fewer production issues. Your growing skills help your team deliver updates to users more confidently and efficiently.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to build and maintain automated deployment pipelines that reliably release software with minimal manual steps. You spot and resolve issues in the deployment process, working with your team to reduce downtime and errors. Your work leads to smoother releases and a better experience for both users and developers.
Configuration Management
Configuration Management is the efficient practice of handling changes within a software development environment. It involves the systematic regulation of alterations to ensure consistency and accurate version control. By masterfully executing this role, it promotes harmonious development teams, reduced errors and smoother software releases.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are learning the basics of configuration management by following established version control procedures and using designated tools under guidance. You help maintain order in the codebase by making consistent updates and tracking simple changes made by yourself or your team. This supports reliable development and reduces avoidable mistakes.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to apply configuration management practices in your work, such as tracking and documenting changes to code. You follow established processes and use version control tools with guidance from others. This helps your team maintain clear records, avoid errors, and release software with more confidence.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are consistently applying configuration management practices to keep software code and assets well organized and up to date. You can independently manage version control, resolve common conflicts, and contribute to clear documentation for your team. This approach improves reliability and helps your team deliver changes smoothly and with fewer errors.
Code Review
Code Review is the systematic examination of software source code, conducted to identify and rectify errors overlooked in the initial development stages. This process enhances the overall quality of software, prompting distance from potential risks and project delays. The capability of code review requires analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail and clear communication behaviors.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are learning to participate in code reviews by observing and following established guidelines with guidance from others. You contribute by offering basic feedback or asking clarifying questions to improve your understanding. Your involvement supports team quality standards and helps you build confidence in identifying simple coding issues.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are beginning to review code written by others, identifying straightforward issues such as formatting, syntax errors and simple logic mistakes. You contribute constructive feedback and ask questions to better understand coding decisions. Your involvement supports stronger code quality and helps you build confidence in collaborative development work.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to independently and thoroughly review code, consistently spotting and explaining issues that might affect functionality, security, or maintainability. You provide clear, constructive feedback that helps your team deliver higher quality software with fewer defects. Your reviews contribute to both project progress and the development of your colleagues.
Code Refactoring
Code Refactoring is the systematic process of improving code without altering its external behavior. Key skills encompass understanding of software structure, identifying non-optimal code and making the necessary changes. This vital capability ensures code remains clean and efficient, enhancing system performance and overall software quality.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are aware of what code refactoring is and can recognize basic signs of messy or inefficient code, such as duplicate sections or unclear naming. You follow simple refactoring instructions from others and make small changes under guidance. Your developing skills help keep code clearer and make team projects easier to manage.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are starting to recognize areas in code that could be improved for clarity or efficiency. You follow established refactoring guidelines with support and make small, low-risk changes to existing code. This helps you build your confidence while contributing to cleaner, more maintainable software within your team.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to routinely identify opportunities to refactor code and confidently apply improvements while maintaining existing functionality. You use recognized techniques to streamline logic, reduce repetition, and improve code readability within your team’s projects. Your efforts help maintain reliable, efficient code that’s easier for others to understand and enhance.
Code Development
Code Development is a vital facet of Software Development. It involves creating, testing, and modifying code for software to function as intended. This capability hinges on in-depth coding knowledge, problem-solving skills, and a meticulous testing approach, thus directly influencing software efficiency and reliability.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to write simple code under guidance, following clear instructions and established examples. You focus on understanding basic coding principles and learning how your work fits into the software development process. Your contributions help ensure that code is reliable and that you build good habits for future growth.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are writing and modifying code with support, following established patterns and guidance from more experienced colleagues. You focus on understanding requirements, fixing simple bugs, and contributing to team tasks. Your growing skills help ensure that code is functional and reliable, building a strong foundation for further development.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to develop, test, and refine code for a range of software projects with minimal guidance. You consistently follow coding practices and use your problem-solving skills to resolve technical challenges and improve code quality. Your reliable approach ensures software runs efficiently, supporting project success and team goals.
Build Automation
Build Automation is the proficiency of creating software and applications by scripting the stages of the development process. It involves understanding the process of automating common developer tasks - compiling code, packaging deployment artifacts, and managing dependencies. Mastery of this capability results in consistent code output, increased productivity, and faster time to market.
Level 1: Emerging
At a foundational level you are able to follow established build automation steps and use basic scripts or tools as instructed. You understand why tasks like compiling, packaging, and managing dependencies are important for reliable software development. Your actions help ensure that builds run smoothly and consistently within your team.
Level 2: Proficient
At a developing level you are able to use established build automation tools to compile code, run basic scripts, and manage dependencies for your projects. You follow existing automation processes and can troubleshoot straightforward build issues with guidance. This helps you deliver more consistent work and reduces errors in the software development process.
Level 3: Advanced
At a proficient level you are able to design, implement, and troubleshoot build automation scripts for software projects with minimal guidance. You confidently use automation tools to streamline compiling, packaging, and dependency management in your team’s workflow. This enables your team to deliver high-quality software more reliably and quickly.
