An Introduction to Java and Program Design - Java Programming: Comprehensive Concepts and Techniques - page 10

FIGURE 1-8
Programming a Computer
Most computer users do not write their own programs. Programs required for
common business and personal applications such as word processing or spread-
sheets can be purchased from software vendors or stores that sell computer
products. These purchased programs are referred to as application software
packages .
Even though good application software packages can be purchased inexpen-
sively, software development firms and other companies have a need for
developers to build application software packages as well as custom applications.
Large companies, for example, need industry-specific software not available
in the retail market due to its limited use. Smaller companies want programs
that can be adjusted and tailored to fit their needs. Existing programs also
need constant maintenance, monitoring, and upgrades. Learning to develop
programs, therefore, is an important skill. Learning program development
improves logical- and critical-thinking skills for computer-related careers, and
it teaches why applications perform as they do. As hardware, networking, and
Internet technologies progress and change, developers will be needed to meet
the challenge of creating new applications. Programming, a combination of
engineering and art, is a very marketable skill.