A full stack developer is someone who is comfortable and familiar with all layers of computer software development. These developers have the knowledge and ability to take a concept and turn it into a finished product. They understand how everything works completely and can anticipate problems accordingly.
Full-stack developers are adept in both the front-end and back-end. While each "end" (front end and back end) involves learning a significant amount of knowledge, a full stack developer can comfortably speak both database and browser. They can work with databases, HTML, CSS, PHP, JavaScript/jquery and everything in between.
Full-Stack developers are well-versed in both user experience and business logic , meaning they are not only well-equipped to get hands on, but can also direct and consult on strategy and best practices.
A full stack developer may work full-time or part-time in companies, or may choose to do home-based work. If a full stack developer chooses to do freelance, they may travel a lot. Some full stack developers freelance their skills to different organizations, while others choose to outsource their skills using their expertise to act as consultants or independent contractors to companies.
The idea of being a full-stack developer isn’t about knowing all about every technology or language there is. It is more about someone being familiar and understands each layer and has a genuine interest in all software technology. It’s also about being able to communicate intelligently with team members and to be a helpful resource if the situation requires it.
These developers will have an important role in the web development of the future, and are able to look at the 'big picture'. They are knowledgeable about the client side’s user experience as well as the server-side.
A full-stack developer has knowledge in all stages of software development and would be proficient, if not fluent, in:
• UI (User Interface)
A full-stack developer understands how to create a readable layout; is
able to implement a good visual design made by artists and graphic designers;
using HTML5 / CSS, JavaScript or jQuery.
• UX (User Experience)
A full-stack developer knows that this design discipline is also very important since
it is the experience that someone has when they use a piece of technology. The goal of
a UX is to make that experience a good one, for all who use the Website, software,
or app.
• API layer / Action Layer / MVC
A full-stack developer knows how the outside world operates against the business logic and data model.
He is able to use various frameworks and able to write clear, consistent, and simple to use interfaces
• Server, Network, and Hosting Environments
Full-stack developers understand what can break and why, knows the appropriate use of the
file system,
cloud storage, and network resources. They know the application scale given the hardware
constraints; and working side by side with DevOps.
• Data Modeling
Full-stack developers work with data modeling which involves knowing how to create a
reasonably normalized relational model, complete with foreign keys, views, lookup tables,
indexes, etc. They are familiar with the concept of non-relational data stores and understanding
where they shine over relational data stores.
• Business Logic
They have solid object-oriented skills.
• Customer and Business Needs
They have a grasp of what is going on when the customer uses the software; having a grasp of the business.
Full-stack developers know and are familiar with a wide range of programming languages to accomplish their goals. These can be grouped into front-end and back-end languages.
Front-end languages are used to represent the interface or what users see and how they experience a website. These languages include HTML - which is used to build web pages, CSS - which is used to style the HTML web pages, and Javascript - which is used to add interactivity to HTML pages.
Back-end languages are commonly used to store and manipulate data, manage user permissions, and do all of the complicated stuff required by the program. There is a wide variety of languages that can be classified as a back-end, including PHP, Java, Ruby, Python, Swift, and Go.
In addition to being familiar with both front-end and back-end languages, a full-stack developer should also have an understanding of the technologies that run alongside their programs. This includes the SQL database language and the HTTP communication protocol.
On a daily basis, full-stack developers will find themselves using multiple languages, but they will also find themselves working alongside dedicated front-end or back-end developers who have a much deeper understanding of their chosen trades.
To reach the level of qualification full stack developers have, it clearly takes years of work experience in various languages, roles, and industries. Because of this, full stack developers are few, making them very employable and in-demand.
At Go4Global, our team that consists of Full Stack Developers has years of experience building customized and unique websites for clients throughout the country and some other parts of the world. We know what makes a website stand out among others and would love to assist you, so if you’re interested, just get in touch with us and we will take care of the rest!