Agile and Scrum – project management approaches that emphasise flexibility, iteration, and team collaboration. Agile methodology assumes frequent iterations in the software development process, while Scrum is a specific framework for team work that includes elements such as sprints, stand-ups, and retrospectives.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) – a field of computer science focused on creating computer systems capable of performing tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as image recognition, natural language processing, and decision-making.
Algorithm – a set of instructions or rules that define the steps needed to solve a specific problem or perform a particular task. Algorithms form the foundation of many applications and computer systems.
API (Application Programming Interface) – a set of rules and definitions that specify how different software components should interact with each other. An API enables interaction between various applications or services by providing a set of callable functions.
API Endpoint – a specific URL or path where particular functions or resources can be accessed through an API. Each endpoint can handle different HTTP requests such as GET, POST, PUT, or DELETE to perform different operations.
Data Analytics – the process of processing, analysing, and extracting insights from large datasets to understand trends, forecast behaviours, and make better business decisions.
Backend and Frontend – the backend is the part of an application or system responsible for server-side processing and business logic. The frontend is the part users see and interact with. Both work together to deliver a complete application.
Big Data – a term referring to extremely large, complex, and fast-changing datasets that cannot be efficiently managed using traditional methods and analytical tools.
Blockchain – a decentralised and immutable database in which transactions are recorded in blocks linked together in a chain, ensuring data security and integrity.
Bug – also known as a defect or error, a problem in software that leads to incorrect behaviour or results that don’t meet user expectations. Detecting and fixing bugs is an essential part of software development.
Cloud Computing – a model for delivering IT services where resources such as servers, storage, and applications are provided over the internet instead of locally. Cloud services offer scalability, flexibility, and efficiency, with users paying only for what they use.
Cloud Services – IT services provided by vendors that grant access to computing resources, such as servers, storage, and applications, via the internet.
Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) – a software development practice focused on continuously integrating code changes and deploying new versions to production. CI/CD automates testing, building, and deployment processes, accelerating the application lifecycle and improving quality.
Cybersecurity – the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, applications, and data from attacks, data theft, and other cybercrime-related threats.
Data Backup and Recovery – the process of creating and storing data backups to protect against loss or damage, along with procedures for restoring data in case of failure.
Deployment – the process of making a finished product or update available on servers or platforms so it can be accessed by end users. Deployment may include server configuration, application installation, and validation testing.
DevOps – a concept that integrates and automates processes related to software development, testing, and deployment. DevOps promotes collaboration between development and operations teams to shorten the application lifecycle and increase delivery efficiency.
DNS (Domain Name System) – a system that translates domain names into IP addresses, allowing devices to communicate over the internet. DNS makes it possible to use easy-to-remember domain names instead of numeric IP addresses.
Docker – an application containerisation platform that enables apps to run in lightweight, isolated containers. Docker containers are portable and can be deployed across different environments, simplifying deployment and management.
Firewall – a security system that monitors and controls network traffic between private and public networks, filtering and blocking unauthorised access and protecting against cyberattacks.
Framework – a structure, library, or set of tools that facilitates and speeds up application or system development. Frameworks often provide prebuilt components and templates that can be customised for project needs.
Incident Management – the process of responding to incidents, failures, or security breaches within IT infrastructure to quickly restore normal operations and minimise negative impacts.
Kanban Board – a visual workflow management tool that helps track task progress through columns representing work stages and cards representing tasks.
Milestone – a significant point or achievement in a project that marks the completion of a specific phase or the attainment of a key goal.
Open Source – a software development model where source code is publicly available and can be modified and improved by the developer community. Open-source software is often free and based on principles of openness and collaboration.
Product Owner – the person responsible for managing the project backlog, defining requirements and priorities, and representing the client’s interests within the Scrum team.
Quality Assurance (QA) – a set of practices and activities aimed at ensuring a product or service meets defined standards and customer expectations.
Repository – a storage location for project files and source code. Repositories are often managed using version control systems like Git, enabling collaborative development.
Risk Management – the process of identifying, assessing, and managing potential risks and opportunities that may impact project goals.
Scrum Master – the person responsible for facilitating the Scrum process, ensuring adherence to principles, removing obstacles, and supporting the team in achieving sprint goals.
Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC) – the process encompassing all phases of software development, from design and creation to testing, deployment, and maintenance.
Sprint Planning – the process of defining goals and tasks for the upcoming sprint (1–4 weeks) in a Scrum project.
SQL (Structured Query Language) – a programming language used to manage relational databases, enabling operations such as inserting, updating, deleting, and querying data.
Technical Support – a service provided by IT vendors that assists with troubleshooting and resolving technical issues related to software, hardware, or IT services.
UI and UX (User Interface and User Experience) – UI refers to user interactions with the application interface, such as buttons, text fields, and menus. UX refers to the overall experience of users while interacting with the application. Both are crucial in designing usable and attractive applications.
User Story – a description of a system function from a user’s perspective, typically expressed as a short requirement with defined acceptance criteria.
Version Control – a system for managing code or file versions that allows tracking changes, restoring previous versions, and collaborative work.
VPN (Virtual Private Network) – a technology that creates a secure connection between a user’s device and a private network via the internet, ensuring data confidentiality and integrity through encryption.Â
