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  Computer programmers write computer software---the logical series of instructions computers use to perform their actions. Typical computer programmer activities are to create, test, debug, update, and repair computer software. computer programmer (Editor - link "computer programmer" to resource below) Computer programming is a specialized skill. The level of specialization required by the programmer primarily depends on the user requirements, program design, program complexity, programming language to be used.
  
  

Computer Programming Language Knowledge Is Needed

• Every computer program is required to be written in a computer language. A computer programmer will know one or more computer languages. It can take months to learn a computer language and several years to become proficient.
  
  

The Program Will Meet User Requirements

• The computer programmer will work with you (the user) to define the program requirements---system inputs, system outputs, and processing algorithms---so that the program will perform as desired. The programmer will be skilled in one of several common techniques.
  
  

Structured/Mathematical Analysis Will Be Used

• Computer programming requires a structured and mathematical thinking process to convert the program requirements to computer instructions. Computer programmers are hired by people who are not comfortable using structured analysis or who have difficulty with mathematics.
  
  

The Computer Program Will Be Designed To Best Meet Requirements

• There are an infinite number of ways to write a computer program to accomplish a set of requirements. A computer programmer is trained to develop a program that will be optimized to meet your requirements. The appropriate types of optimization that can be performed---such as design, algorithm, performance, power usage or maintainability optimization---depend on the program requirements.
  
  

You Can Contract Only For The Work Required

• A computer programmer need only be hired on a contract basis to develop the computer program. You don't need to permanently hire someone. Computer programmers will develop a computer program for you on either a part-time or full-time basis, depending on your need. Once the computer program is complete you can continue to hire the programmer to make changes or else end the contract.