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What does a Software Manager do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A software manager is responsible for the development and maintenance of software applications. They work with a team of developers to create and improve software products. They also oversee the quality assurance of these products before they are released to customers.

Software Manager job duties include:

  • Overseeing the development and implementation of software programs
  • Coordinating work between departments and teams
  • Managing software development projects
  • Hiring, training, and supervising software developers and engineers
  • Monitoring industry trends and keeping up to date with new technologies
  • Working with clients or customers to understand their needs
  • Writing specifications or technical documentation
  • Creating prototypes or models of proposed systems
  • Planning and managing budgets

Software Manager Job Requirements

Most software managers have a bachelor's degree in computer science, although some have a master's degree. Many software managers also have certification from the Project Management Institute (PMI). In terms of experience, most software managers have at least 5 years of experience in the software development field.

Software Manager Skills

  • Communication
  • Leadership
  • Organizational
  • Problem solving
  • Delegation
  • Team building
  • Motivation
  • Decision making
  • Conflict resolution
  • Budgeting
  • Planning

Related: Top Software Manager Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Software Manager

There are many different paths into a career as a software manager. Some people come from a background in software development, while others come from a more general business or management background. In either case, there are some key skills and qualities that are essential for success in this role.

First and foremost, a software manager must have strong technical skills. They need to be able to understand complex software systems and how they work together. They should also be able to identify areas where improvements can be made and have ideas for how to implement those changes.

In addition to technical skills, software managers also need strong people skills. They need to be able to motivate and manage teams of developers, often with very different personalities and working styles. They need to be good communicators, able to clearly articulate goals and expectations and give feedback effectively.

Finally, software managers need to be good at problem solving. They will inevitably face challenges and obstacles in their projects, and they need to be able to quickly identify potential solutions and implement them effectively.

If you have the requisite skills and qualities, then a career as a software manager could be a great fit for you. It can be a highly rewarding role, both professionally and personally.

Related: Software Manager Resume Example

Related: Software Manager Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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