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OverviewNature of WorkKnowledge AreasSkills Utilized
Job ActivitiesAbilitiesJob ConditionsWork SatisfactionEducation/Training

Skill Areas

Learn about the most important skills for Computer Software Engineers, Applications. Also, find out how proficient you have to be in each skill.

Importance*More Info
1.Programming99
2.Critical Thinking96
3.Complex Problem Solving91
4.Troubleshooting86
Active Learning86
6.Judgment and Decision Making83
Technology Design83
8.Reading Comprehension82
9.Operations Analysis79
10.Systems Analysis77
* Importance out of 100

Score Key
  Importance for success in this profession
  Level of proficiency needed

Skill Area Scores

Programming
Writing computer programs for various purposes.
99
90
Write a program in BASIC to sort objects in a databaseWrite a statistical analysis program to analyze demographic dataWrite expert system programs to analyze ground radar geological data for probable existence of mineral deposits
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
96
84
Determine whether a subordinate has a good excuse for being lateEvaluate customer complaints and determine appropriate responsesWrite legal brief challenging a federal law
Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
91
80
Lay out tools to complete a jobRedesign a floor layout to take advantage of new manufacturing techniquesDevelop and implement a plan to provide emergency relief for a major metropolitan area
Troubleshooting
Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
86
91
Identify the source of a leak by looking under a machineIdentify the circuit causing an electrical system to failDirect the debugging of control code for a new operating system
Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
86
81
Think about the implications of a newspaper article for job opportunitiesDetermine the impact of new menu changes on a restaurant's purchasing requirementsIdentify the implications of a new scientific theory for product design
Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
83
74
Decide how scheduling a break will affect work flowEvaluate a loan application for degree of riskDecide whether a manufacturing company should invest in new robotics technology
Technology Design
Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
83
76
Adjust exercise equipment for use by a customerRedesign the handle on a hand tool for easier grippingCreate new technology for producing industrial diamonds
Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
82
82
Read step-by-step instructions for completing a formRead a memo from management describing new personnel policiesRead a scientific journal article describing surgical procedures
Operations Analysis
Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
79
72
Select a photocopy machine for an officeSuggest changes in software to make a system more user friendlyIdentify the control system needed for a new process production plant
Systems Analysis
Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
77
75
Determine how loss of a team member will affect the completion of a jobDetermine how the introduction of a new piece of equipment will affect production ratesIdentify how changes in tax laws are likely to affect preferred sites for manufacturing operations in different industries