Stimulus Australasia

What is a full stack developer?

The roles and opportunities in IT, software engineering and data management are always evolving. If you don't work in a technical role, you may want to know what is a full stack developer?

Here, below we outline what full stack developers do, the types of tools they use and their primary responsibilities.

 

What does a full stack developer do?

A full stack developer is usually responsible for working on web development in both a website’s front end and back end. A full stack developer often transfers data through systems so that websites are up-to-date and display the correct product information and details. They create websites with clear and ordered information and structure, which are easy for users to navigate. They do this by working with both a website’s front end (or user interface) and within the site’s back end.

Full stack developers enable website links to work and set up links, buttons and other resources. They work to ensure that a website is optimised or modified for people using mobile devices. They may add images, videos, or interactive design components that bring a website to life. A full stack developer may develop a website using coding or programming to modify what comes out of the box in a content management system.

Behind the scenes, within the back end of a website, a full stack developer will establish data and information systems to access, manipulate, and prepare records or information for use on the front end of the website. They may also set up databases or other data management tools that run in the background of a network. This data can then be sent to websites or other channels using APIs.

 

What programming does a full stack developer do?

Full stack developers play a critical role in developing modern web applications, as they have the skills and knowledge required to work on all aspects of the development process, from creating the user interface to designing and implementing the underlying infrastructure. A full stack developer must also have knowledge of security best practices, performance optimisation techniques and testing processes, to ensure that the web applications they build are robust, secure and efficient.

 

 

What front-end systems do full stack developers use?

Full stack developers usually use one or more programming languages. At the front of the website tools, they often use HTML, CCS, and JavaScript to create engaging, visual, or personalised web pages or applications. The HTML describes the structure and content of the webpage, while the CSS governs the design and style of a page. Full stack development modifies and amends both components.

JavaScript is the most popular programming language in the world. It is a versatile tool for full stack development, as it can be used in both back end and front end activities. Full stack developers using JavaScript must understand how it uses functions, closures, delegations and composition to transport data to a website.

Full stack developers may also be familiar with front-end frameworks such as React, Angular, or Vue.js, which allow for the development of complex user interfaces and interactive elements. Using a combination of these front end tools is known as Dynamic HTML. With Dynamic HTML, full stack developers can create a dynamic website that wows, engages and inspires visitors.

 

What back-end systems do full stack developers use?

In the back end of a network, full stack developers may also work with server side languages such as Node.js, Python, Ruby, or Java to build the logic and functionality that power the web application. They also work with databases, such as MySQL, MongoDB, or PostgreSQL, to store and retrieve data as needed by the application.

Full stack developers often have experience with version control systems like Git. GIT is a tool that enables a full stack developer to monitor and manage data at a code level. Git tools enable collaboration on coding with a robust and controlled centralised repository. A full stack developer may also need to use deployment and hosting platforms like AWS, Heroku or Azure.

 

What knowledge do you need to be a full stack developer?

Full stack developers need to have broad skills and capabilities in data and content creation, handling, storage, transportation and security. Full stack developers must have knowledge of:

  • Version control systems to branch, merge, and combine data
  • Software architecture and creation, to be able to manage software tools, and create opportunities for scale through systems
  • Workflow processes, to be able to branch, merge, and deliver data along a process line
  • Web server processes and usage to deploy and manage applications through a network
  • Data storage in both on-premises and cloud environments
  • Project management processes for the successful implementation of new tools and technologies into the data stack
  • Data security and handling in an increasingly complex data compliance environment

 

What skills do you need to be a full stack developer?

In addition to significant programming, network, and information management skills, there are several personal qualities and characteristics that a full stack developer may also need. A full stack developer needs to demonstrate capabilities in:

  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting, to be able to identify where problems are originating and how to respond best
  • Communication and collaboration, in being able to work with other software specialists as well staff from around the organisation who may not have understanding or expertise in network and applications
  • Flexibility and the ability to continuously learn, because full stack development is a rapidly changing field
  • Managing the complexities associated with the use of multiple tools and working with different application providers for satisfactory business outcomes

 

Roles for a full stack developer

Full stack developers often find their ideal roles in enterprise businesses that are seeking to grow and innovate. Huge companies may only look to hire a full stack developer if they seek specialisation in either front end or back end operations. Full stack developers work well in organisations where there is a need for skills and capabilities on both sides of the information system.

Full stack developers need flexibility to respond to needs in web development or building or in the background with data management and governance. They may also need to work closely with the marketing or customer experience teams to ensure that systems are in place for effective marketing and customer engagement and communication.

There is an expectation that full stack developers can hop between different systems rapidly and as the need arises. Many companies are looking for people who can handle the entire end-to-end web development process.

 

Benefits of full stack developers for enterprise business

Full stack developers often have a broad skill set that enables them to work on projects at any stage of the data life cycle. While they may not be highly specialised in one programming language or system, they can assist in a broader range of projects, giving them a varied portfolio of responsibilities. Benefits of full stack development for enterprise business include:

  • A reduction in the number of people/ staff required due to the comprehensive skills of the full stack developer
  • An internal asset who understands all aspects of web development
  • Increased productivity, which thereby reduces costs
  • An understanding of both the consumer and the organisational need for an effective web presence

 

What programming skills do you need to use Pimcore?

Full stack developers must understand the entire data life cycle to get data into systems and then carry it to output on websites and apps. They need to be able to apply critical thinking skills to deliver tools that are easy and enjoyable for customers to use.

As an open-source tool, Pimcore is constantly being improved and modified to suit the individual user requirements of its customers. With a highly flexible framework, developers can customise Pimcore. Pimcore is based on a robust technology stack of PHP/Symfony, MySQL, Elastic Search, Mongo DB, and Varnish.

With the ongoing expansion of e-commerce and newer technologies like AI, IoT, Metaverse, and blockchain, there is likely a continuing need for full stack developers. These employees are critical in ensuring enterprise businesses are flexible, innovative, and responsive to needs and demands.

But you may not need an in-house full stack developer. Contact us to learn more about how we support businesses to ensure that their websites and behind the scenes data management are perfectly blended to ensure an outstanding customer experience.

 

 


Related questions

How does Pimcore make data integration easier?

With several systems and tools rolled into one, Pimcore makes data integration from different systems much more accessible. Your product record can be accessed through a central API, meaning you don't need additional tools in your stack to enable seamless data integration and deployment.

Pimcore provides a single application that can work with any type and amount of digital data. This includes unstructured data such as web content, structured data such as products and attributes, and digital assets such as images, videos and document files. With Pimcore, the need for additional data integration tools is reduced or eliminated.

How does Pimcore work at the front end?

With Pimcore, you can create engaging, beautiful websites that give your customers all the information and resources they need. Pimcore CMS makes creating a front end website easy, even for employees who don’t have specific development skills. With Pimcore DAM, you can ensure your website has beautiful images showcasing your extensive product range.

With Pimcore, you can manage not only the data on your website but also what is dispersed through your application, social media platforms, and even third-party sources like eBay or Amazon. Make data management and deployment much easier with Pimcore.

How much does a full stack developer get paid?

Full stack developers have highly sought after and valued skills. According to this recent report by Fortune, a full stack developer in the United States can earn around $113,000 US dollars per year, which is equivalent to around $190,000 Australian.

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