Full-Stack Developer Career: Pros and Cons Explored

At first glance, it may seem easy to become a full-stack dev -- an engineer who can handle both the front and back end of application development.

Why would someone hire a developer who can only handle the back-end or front-end of application development when they can have a full-stack developer?

Every business needs to be online. This can be achieved with a well-designed website. It can be challenging to design a professional website for your business.

Businesses today face many challenges when it comes to building websites. They want to learn the skills of full-stack or software developers.

Only some developers can develop websites or handle debase-related tasks, as well as front-end and back-end development.

What does it mean to be a Full-Stack developer?

Full-stack developers are web design professionals who create back-end, front-end, and mobile elements for customers.

Back-end development involves creating a website's digital framework. This includes site coding, digital storage, and database synchronization.

Full-stack web designers are skilled in front-end and back-end web development. These Full-Stack Experts are skilled in all programming languages and can help you bring your minimum viable product to life.

Techpreneurs may also need to hire a full-stack developer team to help them with the MVP stage of building a website and API application.

Many start-ups reach the MVP stage before they move on to developing web products. This stage lets you implement your ideas and take customer feedback from the discovery phase.

This stage allows you to tailor your product to customers needs before launching it.

Front-end development creates a website's visual style, page layout, content, and graphical features. Mobile development allows sites to be mobile-friendly by adapting back-end and front-end features to work on handheld internet platforms such as smartphones.

A full-stack programmer may have the following duties:

1. Back-end programming

Full-stack developers create back-end code that connects customer websites to the Internet. This could include connecting all pages with the appropriate online cloud databases that store data from a site.

Developers can also create the background coding for each site, including HTML features. This programming ensures that webpages function smoothly and allows for information sharing among the many internet databases.

Full-stack developers can also bug-test their code to ensure site operation is smooth. Full-stack developers have a foundation for front-end development by completing the back-end code.

2. Front-end features

Once a site's back-end coding is completed, developers integrate the front-end features. This process can be helped by having a page layout and a graphical design.

This could include designing page layouts, creating branded headers, adding written material, posting photos, and balancing these features.

Full-stack developers can create new graphics or buy existing photos and videos from another designer. Developers may also write basic marketing copy for clients, such as landing pages and blogs.

3. Create new online programs

Full-stack developers may create multiple software programs or suites for clients. These programs can display data, collect user information through contact forms, run graphic displays, and navigate multiple site pages.

To improve the operation of each program, developers may integrate them onto the appropriate pages and bug-test them.

Developers may develop customized online programs for clients or adapt an existing program to meet the needs of each client.

It is possible to improve the overall design of a website by learning multiple functional programming languages and integrating these into it.

4. Moving sites to new software

Full-stack developers can transition client pages to new programs or suites when their older software is outdated.

This service can help companies ensure their websites work with modern, internet-capable devices. They may be able to identify obsolete software and recommend new versions that can fulfill these functions.

To upgrade an online clients model, developers may create new programs or update existing software.

Full-stack programmers may program the softwares front- and back-end elements to synchronize their operation.

Are the benefits of being a full-stack programmer more important than the disadvantages? To help you make a decision, here are the pros and cons of full-stack programming.

How to Hire a Full-Stack developer?

A full-stack developer can make product development and delivery much more efficient. Here are some examples of when it might be a good idea to hire full stack developer for your team:

1. A project manager must be able to understand the clients needs and manage them.
2. If you have full-stack developers, you don't need specialists if you are working on a tight budget.

Read More : 6 Benefits Of Hiring A Full Stack Development Company

5 Skills (Characteristics) for a Full Stack developer

To be a full-stack programmer, you must have a combination of skills.

1. Front-End Skills

All full-stack developers have the same front-end skills. These skills include:

1. JavaScript + HTML and CSS
2. Libraries such as jQuery and React.js.
3. SASS metalanguage language and LESS stylesheet language
4. Frameworks such as Angular.js/Angular and Vue.js. Bootstrap
5. JSON, AJAX, and DOM technologies
6. Back-End Skills

A specialist must have the ability to work with both the front-end and back-end to be considered a full-stack developer.

It is different from the important back-end language. Instead, it is what is most important. It is crucial to differentiate between the Java platform and the Java language.

Although the Java platform supports different programming languages, such as Java, Scala, and Kotlin, they all run in JVM (Java Virtual Machine).

1. Full-Stack Developers

Node.js is an open-source system that allows JavaScript code to be executed outside a web browser. NodeJS is not a framework or a programming language but rather a platform for programming.

Node full stack developer skills:

1. JavaScript language
2. Node.js
3. Frameworks that are suitable for Node.js include Express.js and Nest.js
4. JavaScript package managers
5. Web Sockets & REST API
6. Python Full Stack Developers

Python is a universal programming language that can be used for all things, including educational tasks and the creation of neural networks.

Python full-stack developer skills:

1. The programming language in Python
2. Framework Django/Flask
3. REST API
4. Nginx and OS Linux web servers
5. Cloud services
6. Java Full-Stack Developers

Java is one of the most used and popular programming languages. It can be used on many operating systems and processors.

Java components can be found easily, and ready solutions are available.

Java full-stack developer skills:

1. JavaScript language
2. API Java EE specification
3. Spring (Spring MVC, Spring Boot, Spring REST, Spring Web) Framework
4. Apache HTTP-server
5. Google Cloud and Azure cloud services
6. JSP, Servlets and Microservices
7. Full-Stack PHP Developers

PHP is a server scenario language that was created specifically for web development. It's useful for creating templates and themes and expanding the standard HTML possibilities.

PHP full stack developer skills:

1. PHP language
2. Framework Yii2/Symfony/Laravel

2. Basic design skills

Full-stack developers must have basic design strategy skills to create user-friendly and attractive websites. The basic design principles of UI/UX design, and its prototypes, are included.

3. Git and GitHub Experience

Git, also known as the "distributed source control system," allows developers to manage every stage of software development.

Its bug-fixing and tracking efficiency are superior to other control systems.

GitHub allows web developers with full stack to manage multiple projects at once. It is a platform that allows developers to communicate and interact with each other, as the name suggests.

GitHub uses git features to offer a great platform for developers.

4. Databases and web storage

Nearly all websites have a database that stores all data. If you have an online store, it will contain data about your products as well as users.

A full-stack developer must be able to create queries that call up the correct data on the site. This knowledge is essential.

Data is stored this way so it can be accessed quickly and efficiently. It is important to be familiar with databases such as storage, deletion, control, processing, and control.

There are two types of databases: SQL (relational) and NoSQL. MongoDB is a popular NoSQL database.

5. HTTP and REST

Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is the foundation for data transfer over the Internet. It allows you to load webpages, stream videos, and communicate with web servers.

It is the foundation of almost all our Internet interactions. HTTP allows web clients, servers, and users to communicate through requests and replies.

The architectural standard for representative state transfer (REST) is the Representative State Transfer. It allows computer systems to communicate easily with one another.

RESTful systems use HTTP for data collection and various operations. REST allows communication between the front end of the system and its back end.

6. Soft Skills

It would help if you considered whether a full-stack programmer is the right person to hire. These soft skills are necessary for a talented full-stack developer:

1. Analytical mindset
2. Patience
3. Passion for learning
4. Attention to detail
5. Creativity and vision
6. Discipline

The pros of being a full-stack programmer

There are many benefits to hiring a full-stack development team to manage your project from conception to launch.

Design is a growing area of investment for many companies. Blue Corona data has shown that businesses driven by design are 69% less likely to outgrow them than their peers.

There are many benefits to becoming a full-stack programmer, such as:

1. Comprehensive programming abilities

Full-stack developers can understand front-end and back-end programming steps, expanding their career opportunities.

A full-stack programmer can find jobs as a back-end or full-end developer since their education and training include courses that allow them to use both design options.

Full-stack positions may be available for various companies, such as web design and programming firms. They may be able to synchronize the back-end coding of a site with its front-end user interface by handling both front-end and back-end tasks.

This could help them bug-test and improve the operation of their sites.

2. Potential for high-earnings

Based on their position and experience, full-stack developers could earn a median salary of $101,334 per annum. After one year of experience, the full-stack developer may earn an average of $83,169 per annum.

Full-stack developers may make more money if they work or spend more time developing.

They may earn $122,645 yearly as a median salary after three to five years. These numbers can vary depending on where the developer is located, how much the company has to spend, and many other factors.

3. Rapid job growth

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics puts full-stack developers under the general "web designers and digital designers" heading.

It projects 13% job growth from 2020 to 2030. This is more than double the average 6% all-jobs. Based on the potential retirement trends and online business growth trends, there may be 17,900 new job opportunities for developers every year.

According to the BLS, internet business expansion could increase web developer job opportunities by opening up more job opportunities.

The creation of remote-work jobs may also expand these career opportunities.

4. Employers will love you

A developer proficient in all aspects of the stack is attractive to employers. The company can hire two developers for the front and one for the back.

Instead, it can hire one programmer.

Employers may be concerned that full-stack developers need more skills to cover the entire stack. As noted below, full-stack developer salaries are lower on average.

Full-stack developers are still attractive to some companies, especially those with smaller budgets that cannot afford to invest in additional roles.

5. You can manage the whole stack

You're more likely to be able to work independently as a full-stack programmer because you can build, test, and troubleshoot the entire stack yourself.

Contrarily, if your focus is on the front end only, you will spend much time working with back-end developers to solve issues.

If you are a specialist in back-end programming, you might also spend some time working with them.

Developers who prefer working on their own can have the advantage of being able to manage the entire stack on their own.

They can rely on themselves and check in with colleagues to finish a task before moving on to the next one.

6. You can be more flexible in your job

Full-stack roles suit developers who enjoy a fast pace and are open to new opportunities. Full-stack roles allow you to use more technology, processes, and variety in your day-to-day activities.

This also means you will have more opportunities for innovation and engagement with new technologies. It's less likely that you will become bored if you use the same tools or do the same job day in and day out.

7. Cost Savvy

This is, as we have already said, easy to see. Full-stack development companies can offer cost-effective solutions regardless of project size.

Full-stack development can be more reliable than other methods, making it the best choice for companies that want to design, develop, or build products.

Full-stack developers can provide both front-end as well as back-end development services. This allows anyone to create any app or host any environment.

They are also able to provide temporary work.

8. Full-Stack Flexibility

Full-stack programming can be a great option for businesses, as it allows full-stack programmers to work on multiple levels of software architecture.

Creating and scaling a team of specialists for your project is also easier, as everyone should perform the same tasks.

This helps to increase your resilience, as you are less likely to stop the project if your back-end engineer becomes ill.

Their peers can take over the job. Programmers with full-stack skills are more likely to be able to adapt to technological changes.

9. Versatility

Full-stack developers can work with both back-end and front-end technologies. This allows them to be more flexible.

Many technologies help you create the features and user experience you desire. They also have client-side and server-side control, allowing you to customize the user experience and maintain consistency in app performance.

10. Smoother integration between Front-End & Back-End

Full-stack developers work on all phases of a project. This includes the front-end, back-end, and database management.

Full-stack developers have an advantage as they can see every step and detail in each segment.

Multiple developers may manage different sections of a project. They need to cooperate to solve any problems. Sometimes this can lead to better communication.

He is a full-stack programmer and can manage all three segments.

11. Multiple Proficiency

Full-stack developers need to be proficient in a variety of technologies. Full-stack developers can use a variety of programming languages to code their projects.

These include Java, HTML, Node.js, PHP, JavaScript, and JavaScript. Developers should have a broad range of technologies in their portfolios.

12. A wider view

Full-stack software offers a wider range of views and perspectives and a greater variety of perspectives. Developers look for unusual outcomes and new angles when creating full-stack web applications or mobile apps.

This helps to differentiate their final product. Developers have many years of experience and can draw from various projects.

They can also take over any position on the development team and replace anyone else in an emergency.

13. Timely and effective troubleshooting

Effective troubleshooting requires two factors. The first is to find and resolve any issues that might arise during development.

The second concern is post-release maintenance. External causes can also cause problems.

A full-stack developer can solve both problems simultaneously, as they usually have working knowledge and have developed efficient algorithms to address each problem.

14. All-In-One Solutions

Full-stack specialists can lead projects, work with teams or implement new ideas. They may also represent the final product.

Developers can convince stakeholders by providing useful data about existing full-stack applications.

15. Full Stack Developers: What is the cost of hiring them?

Full-stack developers with over ten years of experience are in high demand. They have worked on hundreds upon hundreds of projects.

Expect to write a large check. Their location determines the cost of hiring developers.

Thanks to distributed teams, you can hire a developer from anywhere in the world today.

The cons of being a full-stack programmer

Full-stack developers might face some disadvantages in their job. Here are some cons to be aware of:

1. Heavy workload

Full-stack developers are responsible for many tasks, including back-end programming, database management, network administration, and page updates.

These tasks can be overwhelming for some people. Some people find the constant hustle and bustle stimulating, while others may enjoy taking on multiple tasks.

This job may be rewarding for those who enjoy working on complex projects over long periods.

Before applying for this web design role, ask yourself if a fast-paced and engaging environment is a good fit for your career.

2. Contact with co-employees is minimal

Full-stack developers might work from home and need more in-person interaction with clients or colleagues. You may communicate with clients through email or chat, but you might not meet them in person.

This environment may be difficult for people who like to work with multiple people daily. Others may be more comfortable working remotely and embracing it.

These remote positions may offer chat programs and morale-boosting opportunities, such as monthly in-person meetings to improve a developers socialization.

3. Long training periods

Full-stack developers might need lengthy training, including a bachelors in computer science and long programming courses.

Web development can include:

1. Many languages.
2. Database-management programming.
3. Server-tech knowledge.
4. Server-tech expertise.
5. Network design knowledge.
6. Online library information.

It includes data structure skills, algorithm understanding, and system design comprehension. Although this knowledge may be helpful for full-stack developers, some may find it exhausting.

Before starting this training, ensure you are confident in your job.

4. You will make less money

Salary.com says full-stack developers make less than their front-end and back-end counterparts.

This might seem surprising. Employers may be more willing to pay for full-stack developers than they would for two developers.

As mentioned above, some employers are likely hesitant to pay a premium to full-stack positions because they believe full-stack developers need more depth to build an entire app on their own.

They would rather have specialized, narrow expertise than broad and generic.

Full-stack developers with deep knowledge across all aspects of the application stack will likely be the exception to this salary trend.

You'll likely earn more if you can do the same work as two developers.

5. Constant change is something you must deal with

Full-stack developers must be proficient in more technologies and tools. This means they need to be more diligent to keep up to date with the latest developments in software development.

Full-stack developers will spend more time planning projects or researching new tools.

Some people may find constant exposure to new things a positive thing. If you are a person who only wants to do one thing well, then you might not be a good fit for full-stack.

6. When things go wrong, you'll take more responsibility

Full-stack developers can't point fingers at anyone else if your application fails to work as expected. You are responsible for any performance, security, or other issues within the app if you own the entire stack.

Full-stack positions may not be right for you if you do not like being in the middle of application problems.

How to become a full-stack programmer

These are some tips to consider when looking for a career in full-stack development.

1. Learn multiple programming languages

During your full-stack developer education, you should learn as many programming languages and concepts as possible.

These languages can be helpful when you integrate new databases, update a site's code, create mobile-friendly platforms, or balance HTML features.

You can sign up for multiple college-level courses or free or paid online courses to increase your programming knowledge.

1. Make practice sites

You can gain hands-on experience in front- and back-end programming by creating new websites. You might learn back-end concepts like data structure, server handling, database management, and back-end programming languages.

Then you can practice the front-end steps like creating graphics, integrating readable text into web pages, and linking pages correctly.

Before you make your site live, keep it hidden.

1. Online jobs for front-end or back-end positions

Use online job boards and forums to find back- or front-end programming jobs. These jobs can help you develop advanced front- and back-end design skills.

You might find a part-time job programming databases for websites. You can also build an online portfolio by gaining practical experience.

This portfolio can be shared if you are looking for a full-stack position as a developer.

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The Key Takeaway

As the digital landscape changes have increased, companies of all sizes are joining the online bandwagon to improve their online presence.

Software developers and companies specializing in software development can help businesses create engaging websites or applications.

Based on data from Statista, the number of developers worldwide is predicted to increase by 3.2 million from 2020 to 28.7 million by 2024.

Full-stack developers exhibit greater accountability. This can lead to more variety on the job and may make you more appealing to employers.

Full-stack developers must learn more and take more responsibility, but they do not necessarily make more than back-end or front-end developers.

However, only some professionals have the same level of expertise. Businesses often hire full-stack programmers.

Full-stack developers may be the right choice if you need to deliver projects faster and provide high-quality solutions.

References

1. 🔗 Google scholar
2. 🔗 Wikipedia
3. 🔗 NyTimes