30 Application Developer Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Application Developer interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Table of Contents
General
1. What type of software program would you create if you were allowed to work on an application development project outside of work, and why?
How to Answer
This is a unique question the interviewer will ask you to learn more about your preferences and the type of programming you enjoy. Every answer you give during an interview demonstrates your qualifications for the position for which you are interviewing. Your answer to this question can reflect your personal preferences, but it should also align with the type of programming the organization expects you to do. You can determine how to properly answer this question by researching the organization to learn about the applications it develops, the type of programmers who work currently there, and some of the projects they've recently completed.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I'm not working on application development projects at work, I enjoy coding software which is meant to improve applications used in distance learning environments. I have watched students using these applications struggle due to the interface's complexity, the application's limitations, and other critical issues. I am familiar with these issues, and I know that I can improve the applications and make them easier to use. I have developed a new distant learning application currently being tested by one of the local school districts. I hope to make this available as freeware for any school that would like to use it in their curriculum."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
General
2. Can you describe some of the resources you use when researching a solution to a challenging programming problem?
How to Answer
As an application developer, you will be asked many questions about the technology and the processes you use to do your work during an interview. The interviewer wants to understand your capabilities, experience, and skills and confirm that they match the job requirements. When answering these types of questions, you should be direct and concise. You should also anticipate follow-up questions from the interviewer if they need additional information or are interested in the topic you are discussing. When asking about the resources you use when faced with a difficult programming issue, the interviewer hopes to learn that you recognize your limitations but know how to use external sources to overcome them and learn new programming techniques.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"Whenever I encounter a difficult programming issue which I haven't come across before, I use several resources to research it and learn to overcome it before proceeding to write the code. This helps me quickly resolve the issue and also helps me learn something I can use if I encounter the same or a similar issue in the future. Resources I use to find the solution include programming guides, online articles, podcasts, developer forums, and software coding manuals. I also discuss the issue with my team to get their input, which is usually the fastest way to resolve the issue."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
General
3. How do you define Application Software?
How to Answer
This is a general opening question, which is usually asked early in the interview. The interviewer will ask this to start the interview and develop a dialog with you. They also use the question to confirm your understanding of applications to follow up by asking questions about the application development process. Your answer to this question will establish the direction in which the interview proceeds. You can use this to guide the interviewer into areas you are knowledgeable about and confident with.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Application software or apps are programs that perform specific tasks and help people accomplish something. They include general apps such as word processors, spreadsheets, and games, as well as specific apps including accounting software, educational programs, and business-specific applications."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Application software are tools that are used for specific purposes or to perform a job or task. They can help with business processes, assist with multimedia projects, or support personal activities. Applications, or apps, can be purchased from the vendors, used via the web on a subscription basis, or shared between users as freeware. Most are proprietary, but there are a growing number of open-sourced applications available online for no charge."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
General
4. How do you balance developing effective and efficient application software with addressing client needs?
How to Answer
Every application has project stakeholders and end-users, and their needs must be addressed. Sometimes these requirements conflict with developing applications that function efficiently and effectively. As an application developer, you should discuss how you maintain the quality of the applications you develop while addressing the users' needs and requirements. The interviewer will ask you about this because they prioritize balancing these and understand that achieving both objectives is critical for any successful application development project.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I begin every application development project with a needs assessment and soliciting input from the users and project stakeholders regarding their desired outcomes. I use these conversations to understand the user requirements and to set realistic expectations for the project's outcome. I also make recommendations for changes if the users' expectations conflict with how the application will function. I frequently update the project stakeholders during the application development process, updating them on the progress and, when possible, demonstrating the application's functionality to them. Using development frameworks such as Agile makes this process easier and helps the development team stay aligned with user needs while still creating an effective and efficient application."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
General
5. Can you tell me about a recent project you worked on, sharing with me your process for developing applications?
How to Answer
An interviewer will likely ask you this question early in the interview to learn more about your work style, thought process, and organization skills. Your answer will reveal this information and disclose how you handle any disruptions in the application development process. Your answer should be well organized, taking the interviewer through the steps logically and touching on how you interact with other stakeholders of the project.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I use a common approach to any application development project. First, I work with the project stakeholders to define the requirements and scope of the project. Included in this discussion are the budget, timeline, and resources. I then put together a project plan, dividing it into steps with specific benchmarks. Next, my team and I begin developing the application, using common programming languages and tools, and following the Agile and Scrum methodologies. Once the application is completed, we beta test it and debug the code. Finally, we meet with the stakeholders again to demonstrate the application and get their feedback. Final modifications are made, and the application is released for commercial sale or internal use. Periodically, we review the app and make any modifications or updates to maintain its functionality and improve its features."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"The key to a successful application development project is organization and stakeholder engagement. This begins with clearly identifying the desired outcome for the project, including the exact functions and features the application should have. I then create a project plan and get everyone's buy-in. Next, I begin coding, using the Agile/Scrum methodology, reviewing iterations of the app in phases to identify any issues early before they compound. Once the application is completed, I demonstrate it to the stakeholders and collect their feedback. I then update the app, incorporating their input. This process is repeated until I get final approval to release the app to production or for commercial use."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
General
6. What are you doing to keep current in technology?
How to Answer
Staying current with technology and industry developments is critical for any profession. However, in the faced-paced and dynamic environment of application development, it is even more important. Application Developers who don't plan to stay current in the technology will quickly fall behind, and their value to the organization will diminish. If you don't have a professional development plan, create one. If you do, be able to summarize it succinctly, focusing on the benefits to the employer.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
" I have always considered myself a life-long learner, and I am curious by nature. I recognize both the need and the benefits of staying up to date on the technology in my field. I accomplish this by subscribing to technology publications and blogs, attending industry conferences, and taking online classes to learn new languages and methodologies. I am also a member of several user groups that meet regularly to discuss new developments in application development technology."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I started developing code while I was still young and have been interested in application development technology for most of my life. As a result, I have always taken time to learn new ideas and techniques that would help me improve my coding skills. Once I started doing this as a profession, I created a development plan to maintain my currency in this industry. The components of my plan include both formal and informal training, online forums and blogs, participation in user groups, and attendance at industry events. I even started a discussion group at my last job. We met over lunch once a week and assigned one of the group members to present an application development topic, which we then discussed."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
General
7. What do you feel is the most important skill an application developer should possess?
How to Answer
An interviewer will ask this type of qualifying question to gain some insight into your skillset and your ability to be introspective. This helps them determine if you are qualified for the job and if you will fit into the organization's culture. This is a relatively easy question because they have already indicated what skills are important to them in the job posting. Another reason is that your skills are listed in your resume, so they already have some idea about these. The best answer is to state the skills in both the job posting and your resume and provide the reason why these are important.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"The most important skill an application developer can possess is adaptability. Application development is a dynamic profession that changes quickly. New tools and technologies are constantly being developed, and methodologies evolve quickly. In addition to this, the design criteria and requirements for applications can change during the development process. Developers need to be flexible and adapt to all these changes as part of their daily jobs and responsibilities. "
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"In my opinion, the key skill an Application Developer should possess is attention to detail. Writing code is an exact science, and any deviation from the protocols will result in errors and faulty applications. While the development tools available and the automation employed in contemporary application development are helpful and can mitigate most errors, they can also make developers complacent. Focus, organization, and laser-like attention to every detail of an application development project will result in better quality applications, more efficient code, and a shorter development cycle."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
General
8. Our organization develops applications exclusively for mobile platforms, including both iOS and Android. What is your expertise in this area?
How to Answer
When applying for a position as an application developer, you may be asked about your experience in mobile development as well. This is a qualifying question that will be asked early in the interview. It will allow you to expand on the information in your resume, which helped you get the interview. It also enables you to move the interview in a direction which you are comfortable with by discussing your proficiency with the development languages used for mobile applications.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have been working on developing applications for mobile applications ever since I graduated with a degree in Computer Science. My experience spans both Apple iOS and Android platforms. In some cases, I worked on projects involving cross-platform apps. The programming languages I use include Objective-C and Swift for iOs, and Java and Kotlin for Android. When working on cross-platform apps, I use HTML5 and Apache Cordova."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
" I have worked on cross-platform mobile application development for the bulk of my career, using development languages including HTML5 and Apache Cordova. One of the key elements I focus on when developing applications for these platforms is making sure the applications are responsive. This ensures they will look and perform the same on each platform."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
9. Have you ever worked on a application development project that used both an onshore and an offshore team? If so, what were some of the challenges you encountered?
How to Answer
This question indicates that the organization uses this type of development strategy or is considering it. They either want to determine if you have experience with this type of project structure or whether you would recommend it. If you have worked this way before, describe your experience, the challenges, and the benefits. If you haven't worked with offshore teams, admit this and then state your understanding (but not your experience) of this strategy.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have worked on projects which employed both onshore and offshore development teams. The company used this strategy to save costs and accelerate the development cycle. While they were able to achieve both of these objectives, there were some challenges. These all centered around communication. While language wasn't an issue (the offshore team was fluent in English,) culture, timezones, and the backgrounds and training of the developers did create some conflicts. As the project progressed and we became familiar with each other's styles, we were able to overcome the communication issues, and the project progressed smoothly."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I have actually never worked on a project which employed an offshore development team. However, many of my colleagues have, and I have read quite a bit about the benefits and challenges of using this development strategy. While I am aware of some horror stories where the project went terribly wrong when onshore and offshore teams conflicted, generally using two teams results in a successful project that is done in less time and at a lower cost. I've learned that clear, open, and frequent communication is the key to success. This can be accomplished using a well-structured project plan, frequent meetings and calls, and cutting-edge technology. "
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
10. Can you walk me through how you migrate an application from one hardware platform to another with a different operating system?
How to Answer
In today's technology environment, applications must be developed to run on various platforms and operating systems. This widens the target market for an application and increases its functionality. It is common for users to access the application across various platforms, including computers, tablets, mobile phones, and even wearable devices. Migrating across platforms and between operating systems requires that the user interface be consistent. The functionality is the same regardless of the device or platform the user uses to run the application. This is known as adaptive programming. The interviewer will be very interested in your skills and experience in this area since most contemporary applications need to adapt to their environments.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"Adaptive programming and application portability across devices and operating systems is one of the key design elements of the projects I work on. I use several tools to achieve this objective. Programming in object-oriented languages such as C++ and Java and then compiling the application for a specific platform is one way to achieve this. Creating adaptable user interfaces ensures that the software will appear the same regardless of the device it is running on. I stay up to date on operating system upgrades so that the application can be modified to take advantage of the OS's new features or requirements."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
11. Tell me about the development methodology you employ when creating applications.
How to Answer
The answer the interviewer is expecting in response to these questions is Agile development and a project management process like Scrum. These are the gold standards of the application development community, and not including them in your response is a red flag. Start your response by stating this, then provide the rationale and benefits for employing these methodologies.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I use the Agile development framework for all my projects. I also manage my projects using Scrum. By approaching the project using the iterative and incremental approach, I can address issues early in the process before they become more serious and impactful. Using Scrum and submitting the incremental builds to the stakeholders in a timely fashion accomplishes this same result and has the additional benefit of getting their buy-in to the progress I'm making throughout the project."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Like most contemporary Application Developers, I use the Agile and Scrum frameworks to manage my software development projects. I was fortunate to learn these early in my career and have saved myself and the organizations I work for a great deal of time and money using them. As you may know, Agile is based on creating iterative and incremental developments. This makes it easy to identify issues and correct them before they grow in scope. The Scrum process requires project stakeholders to approve these incremental steps. This ensures that they actively participate in the development process and are not surprised by the final product."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
12. How do you go about explaining complex technical issues to non-technical stakeholders during an application development project?
How to Answer
Application development doesn't occur in a vacuum. Typically there are multiple stakeholders to any development project, many of whom may not have a technical background. The interviewer wants to make sure you can effectively communicate with non-technical individuals. A good answer to this type of question is to demonstrate your understanding of the need to communicate effectively, stating your approach to this.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Every application development project has multiple stakeholders outside of the development team. I understand that they aren't interested in the bits and bytes of how an application is developed but rather in the business-related issues such as time, resources, and the targeted outcomes. Therefore, when meeting with these stakeholders, I focus on these issues. When I need to share technical details of the project with them, I do it at a high level, without using acronyms or jargon. I then follow their lead if they ask specific questions or need additional information, again using language I'm sure they understand."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"One of the key elements of an application development project is keeping all project stakeholders informed. This typically occurs via emails and at regular project status meetings. When working with project participants from outside the technical organization, I am careful to speak in clear, easy-to-understand terms without using acronyms or technical jargon unless I'm sure the audience will understand them. I focus on the business factors of the project and only dig into the technical aspects if asked to."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
13. What are the key steps when migrating an application from one platform to another?
How to Answer
This is a technical question that will help the interviewer understand your experience and ability to migrate applications across platforms or environments. This is important since most applications are developed for multiple platforms, including host-based, web, mobile, and the cloud. It is important to remember that the interviewer isn't expecting a detailed, step-by-step description but rather a summary of the key steps and best practices. You may want to ask the interviewer to provide more details about this question before you answer it. These can include the type of platforms, the nature of the application, and other factors that will help you better compose your answer.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"There are several best practices you should follow to migrate applications between and across platforms. These include performing an assessment, mapping out a strategy, developing a governance format, ensuring licensing issues are addressed, and testing (and retesting) before releasing the application into production. Following these best practices will ensure a smooth and successful migration."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Application migrations are becoming more common for both proprietary and commercial applications due to the variety of platforms, the proliferation of mobile apps, and the growth of cloud-based computing. Migrating apps developed for computing platforms to either mobile devices or the cloud requires a detailed plan and specific steps to be successful. The key elements of this process are performing an assessment, involving the stakeholders and setting proper expectations, developing a plan, assigning the tasks, regular reviews of the project, and testing the application on each platform to ensure it performs the same. Once you've completed this process, the application is ready for use across the various environments."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
14. What measures do you take when developing an application to prevent it from crashing?
How to Answer
When an application crashes or is not working correctly, productivity is impacted the organization incurs additional costs to resolve the issue. This was common when application programmers released the application into production and let the users test it, identifying errors or bugs that needed to be addressed. This process was inefficient and unproductive. Now code is developed, tested, and verified before it is released. Application developers continue to provide updates, patches, and bug fixes, but these generally address user requirements, performance improvements, or any known bugs.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"Once an application I develop is released, it rarely crashes. This is due to the advanced application development tools I use, the software testing, and my application development methodologies. Once I write a block of code, I review it and run it through several tests to ensure the software is robust and able to function in extreme circumstances. I use advanced programming tools to discover relationships and dependencies between different blocks of code and confirm that they are working. I also employ Agile methodologies during the development process to identify any programming errors early so that they can be addressed."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
15. Please desribe how you develop learning aids for the applications you develop?
How to Answer
The interviewer will ask this question to learn more about your style of application development. They want to ensure that your skills extend beyond basic application development and that you are sensitive to how users will employ and interact with the apps you develop. Since most applications are meant to be used by people, you should discuss how you make your applications user-friendly and provide resources for users to learn how to use the application and get answers to their questions.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"After I have developed an application, I use it as though I am an end-user who is interacting with the software for the first time. I document the steps a user will take to access, interact with, use, and close the application. I then create documentation describing these steps, which are included in the help section of the application. I then provide steps the user can take if the software doesn't perform or if they encounter other issues. Finally, I use meta descriptions and keywords to create a context-sensitive index and search feature for the help information. "
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"One of the key elements of any application, whether it is developed for commercial use or as a proprietary in-house application, is the help section. This enables the users to learn the application with little or no formal training and supports them when they encounter errors or user-related issues. I create the help section for an application during the development phase and after the application is complete. I include a step-by-step guide on how to use the app and a troubleshooting database. The help section is indexed and cross-referenced so the user can use a keyword search to quickly find the information they need to resolve an issue or learn about the features and functions of the application."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
16. What priority do you place on security and risk avoidance when developing an application for use within the organization?
How to Answer
Organizations are deeply concerned about the security of the applications they use, especially the internal ones. The safety of the applications is second only to their functionality. Application developers need to be familiar with securing an application so the information it uses cannot be leaked or accessed by unauthorized entities. This is particularly true for internal applications that usually contain company proprietary information. The interviewer will ask you this question to confirm that you are aware of this and understand how you protect the applications you develop.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I pay close attention to the security of the application throughout the development process. I ensure that the code is written securely that strong encryption is used when the program transmits or shares data. I also eliminate vulnerabilities or back doors that hackers use to penetrate the application's security measures. Before I release an application into production, I run it through a series of security tests to make sure that the steps we've taken are effective."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
17. Please explain how you would perform a load test.
How to Answer
This type of question is known as an operational question, which differs from a technical question. By asking this, the interviewer is expecting you to describe a process rather than provide a definition. The question still seeks to explore your knowledge of application development, but in this case, they are looking to see if you know how to complete a specific task. Organize your answer in a logical and sequential framework, and include the purpose or benefit of performing the task.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Load testing is performed by running an application on multiple systems or devices simultaneously. Its purpose is to determine how the application functions under a load and if there is any degradation in the application's performance. An example of a load test is to launch the application simultaneously on several systems with requests for the same data using popup screens. The time required to retrieve and display the data is then compared to that of a single instance of the same process."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Load testing is performed to determine how an application will respond when running on multiple systems. The developer is interested in whether there are any differences in the speed of the application and if running it under a load causes any of its functions to fail or get hung up. Load testing can be performed by running the application under a moderate load for a long period or using a heavy load for a shorter period. In either case, the developer is seeking to understand the operational limitations of the application."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
18. Do you use the Agile methodology when developing applications? If so, can you discuss its advantages and disadvantages?
How to Answer
There are several different models or frameworks used to manage the application development process. These include Agile, SCRUM, Waterfall, and several others. As an application developer, you should be familiar with these and discuss their advantages and disadvantages. The interviewer will ask this question to learn about your experience with these methodologies and whether your experience aligns with their organization's. To prepare for this question and others about development frameworks, you should spend some time before the interview reviewing the methodologies and learning about their strengths and weaknesses. This will help you demonstrate your qualifications in this area.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have used the Agile methodology for software development on many of the projects I've worked on in my previous positions. Agile involves periodic reviews by the project stakeholders at each stage of the software's development. This enables the applications development team to identify errors early in the process and address them before impacting the project later. This methodology is more efficient than developing the entire application and debugging it after writing all the code. One drawback to the Agile framework is that it requires additional time during the development process and is not efficient when using it on smaller or simpler applications with a minimal amount code or which uses code which has already been developed and tested for other uses."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Operational
19. How do you explain a topic such as functional programming to a person who doesn't have a technology background?
How to Answer
This is a general question that the interviewer will use to start a conversation, better understand your background, and collect some information they can use throughout the interview. This type of question provides you the opportunity to point the interview in a direction that you are competent in and most comfortable with. Your answer may prompt the interviewer to ask questions that you can easily answer, demonstrating your qualifications for the position.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"The best way to communicate with other people throughout the organization, regardless of their background, is using clear and easy-to-understand language. When explaining technical ideas to somebody without a technology background, I go out of my way to break the topic down into easily understandable concepts and avoid using acronyms or technology-specific terms. I would explain functional programming as a technique that saves time and simplifies programming by focusing on the application's functions and desired outcomes. This differs from object-oriented programming, which uses code libraries developed for other applications to execute specific commands and portions of the application."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
20. What are some of the key differences between a web application and one designed for mobile devices?
How to Answer
This question can stand independently or may be a follow-up question to one asked earlier in the interview. Whenever you answer an interviewer's question, you should anticipate follow-up questions immediately after the initial question or sometime later in the interview. If asked immediately, it indicates that the interviewer is interested in this topic and would like to explore it in more detail. If asked later, the interviewer is trying to confirm that you consistently answer the questions throughout the interview. No matter when the interviewer asks them, follow-up questions indicate that the topic is of critical importance to the organization, so your answer should demonstrate your qualifications for the job.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"There are several differences between applications written for the web and those designed for mobile devices. Web applications allow for a greater amount of code, whereas mobile applications must be very detailed and efficient since the devices have different processors and less storage. Web applications are usually written for specific browsers and used across various hardware platforms and operating systems. On the other hand, mobile applications are device and OS-specific, so they must be written or compiled for a specific environment. Another key difference is the user interface, which requires resolution and screen size elements to be addressed. This is addressed by developing applications using adaptive interfaces, so their appearance and functionality are similar across devices."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
21. Can you describe Python and some of its features?
How to Answer
Yet another technical question. As an Application Developer, you should anticipate that the bulk of your interview will comprise of these types of questions. You can narrow the field of questions you need to prepare for by researching the company and learning about its products or internal applications. This should provide you with some insight into their technology and the programming languages and tools they use. However, be prepared to answer questions outside of the scope of your findings just in case.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
" Python is an interpreted language, similar to Java, which has components such as objects, modules, exceptions, threads and memory management features. It is open-source, high-level, and relatively easy to learn and use. Like Java, Python has a library of prewritten tools for programming which are contributed through the open-source process."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Python is an open-source language that is relatively simple and easy to learn and use. It is portable, so it's machine and platform-independent. Because it is open-source, there are many libraries and data structures such as lists, numbers, and dictionaries available. Being a high-level language eliminates the need for programmers to be concerned about low-level code."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
22. Are you familiar with APIs, and do you have experience working with them in the programs you write?
How to Answer
This is an example of an operational question. Operational questions help the interviewer understand the processes you use to do your job and the specific techniques you employ to accomplish your assigned projects. The best way to responded to operational questions is directly and briefly. The interviewer will ask you a follow-up question if they need more information or are particularly interested in this topic. As an experienced application developer, you should be very familiar with APIs and easily answer this question.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Answer Example
"APIs are important parts of any application. They enable the application to integrate with other programs to communicate with and exchange data between the applications. APIs are also used to connect applications to hardware, such as input and output devices, including tablets, printers, and other hardware. Some of the APIs I have worked with communicate with HP printers, Oracle databases, SAP, Google, and many other popular programs and platforms. I also create APIs for the applications that I write and make them available to other developers."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
23. What are Verification and Validation, and how do they differ?
How to Answer
Another hybrid question, which addresses both technical and operational competencies. Again, the best approach is to define the terms, discuss how each process is used in application development, and, if necessary, provide an example. Like most technical questions, your answer should be direct, succinct, and brief. Let the interviewer ask a follow-up question if they need additional details or want to explore the topic in more depth.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Verification is a static testing process while Validation is a dynamic test. Verification evaluates each step in the process to ensure it meets the requirements for that stage of the process. Validation occurs at the end of the development process to confirm that the software meets its specifications and performance metrics. Verification focuses on the process, while validation focuses on the product."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Verification and Validation are both testing procedures, but they are different from each other in several ways. Verification is process-focused and looks to confirm that each step in an application development project meets its requirements. Verification looks at documents, requirements, and specifications and uses checklists. Validation is product-focused. Its purpose is to examine the final product to ensure it meets the specifications of the user. Validation uses dynamic testing methodologies while verification is a static process."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
24. What is the difference between Quality Assurance and Quality Control in software testing?
How to Answer
This question is a hybrid between both a technical question and an operational question. The interviewer is seeking to understand your knowledge of the quality function in the software development process and also how you use quality measures when developing an application. Make sure you address both of these concerns in your answer.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Quality Assurance or QA is a planned, systematic way to ensure quality throughout the application development process. It is a component of the process which tests the outcomes and adjusts the process to reduce errors. Quality Control or QC is the final testing of the application to discover any faults or bugs in the software. QC uses the process developed by QA."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Quality Assurance, or QA and Quality Control, also known as QC, are both processes whose goals are to eliminate defects in a software application. The difference is that QA is performed throughout the development process and identifies steps in the process which are responsible for the errors the QA testing has identified. These steps are then modified to eliminate future errors. QC is performed at the end of the development process to ensure the application functions properly. QC follows guidelines developed by QA."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
25. When you described Python, you mentioned dictionaries. I'm not familiar with that term. Can you elaborate on this?
How to Answer
This is an example of the type of follow-up question an interviewer may ask in response to your answer to a previous technical question. They may or may not be familiar with a part of your previous answer, but in either case, they use follow-up questions to verify your knowledge of a topic and to learn more about your communication style. You can anticipate follow-up questions during most technical interviews.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Python has several data types, one being a dictionary. Dictionaries define the relationships between keys and values. They consist of pairs of keys and their corresponding values and are indexed by the keys. Dictionaries are similar to associate array or hash table in other languages."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Dictionaries in Python are similar to hash tables or associate arrays in other programming languages. A dictionary is a data type that defines the one-to-one relationships between keys and values. Each dictionary consists of a pair of keys and their corresponding values. An example of this is Mickey and Donald as keys, and their values are mouse and duck."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
26. How does the native language C or C++ understand data types in JAVA?
How to Answer
This is another technical question the interviewer will use to confirm your qualifications for the App Developer position. Your background should enable you to answer this question easily. It is also an indicator of what programming languages the company uses, so you should expect additional questions about this topic. Your answer should be direct and succinct. Don't be concerned with saying too little. The interviewer will ask a follow-up question if they need more information.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Native languages such as C or C++ interfaces with Java code via the Java native interface, or JNI. This framework enables application developers to write native code if necessary, such as when application components can't be written using Java. JNI is part of the Java Development Kit, or JDK, and assists the developer with interfacing with any native code."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Developers who use Java can interface with any native code, including C or C++ through the Java Native Interface or JNI. This component of the Java Tool Kit provides the programmer with tools and library routines that can be used to develop portions of the application which either need to interface with native code or can't be written in Java. Developers can also use JNI to modify existing applications that were originally written in native code."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
27. Our organization recently began incorporating HTML5 into our applications. Can you describe some of the input types that are new to HTML5?
How to Answer
This is another Technical question that is meant to determine your expertise in a specific area of application development. As with other technical questions, the best approach to answering this is to be straightforward and succinct. If you don't have experience in this area, state this, followed by your willingness and ability to learn about it quickly.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"HTML5 is a robust programming language, and I can understand why you use it. As with most development tools, the language is continually being updated and improved. Some of the most recent additions to HTML5 include input types. These are color, date, datetime-local, range, number, tel, time, URL, week and month."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I'll be honest with you, my experience with HTML5 is limited. I have only recently begun working with this programming language and am still learning its features. I can assure you that as with PHP, Ruby, Python, Javascript, and the other languages I am proficient in, I will be able to develop my expertise in HTML5 quickly and be adept at using it by the time I join your organization. I will also be able to utilize the many resources available on the web to supplement my knowledge until I come up to speed with this language."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
28. What is the importance of the User Interface when developing applications?
How to Answer
Since the User Interface (UI) is one of the most critical parts of any application, you can expect many questions about this topic. As a developer, you should be able to address these based on your education and experience. Be sure to discuss the business benefits of a good UI design since this is important to companies developing commercial applications.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"The User Interface, or UI, is probably the most important feature of a well-designed application. No matter how good an application functions, a bad UI will make it difficult to use and frustrate the users. The key to developing a good UI is to understand how users will interact with the application and what platforms they will use it on. Making the UI responsive so it will have the same look and feel across various platforms is also important. Finally, the UI should be tested with actual users to confirm that your assumptions are correct and to address any issues they identify before the application is released."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"When I begin a development project, I start with the User Interface, also known as the UI. Since this is likely the only part of the application the users will see and interact with, it must be done correctly. I meet with prospective users and discuss the purpose, functions, and features of the proposed application. I then solicit their feedback about how they would like to interact with the application and the UI features they would like and not like, such as buttons, menus, appearance, and other items. Once I have built the UI, and before I release the app for use, I meet with users to have them test the UI and provide me with their feedback, so I can fix any issues they identify."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
29. Which programming languages are you mostly familiar with?
How to Answer
This is a very straightforward question designed to determine your qualifications for the job. The interviewer also seeks to confirm that you are familiar with the programming languages used by the organization. The potential trap posed by this question is the temptation to exaggerate your skills in the programming languages you name. You should expect follow-up questions aimed at further qualifying your experience with and knowledge of the key languages used by the company. Answer this question directly and honestly, and be prepared to provide details.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Languages I currently use for application development include Java, JavaScript, Python, HTML5, Swift, PHP, Objective-C, QML and Ruby. Of these, I prefer Ruby and Python due to their ease of use. and the wide variety of libraries and modules available."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"Most of my application development work has been done using Java, JavaScript, and HTML5. However, I've also worked with PHP, Corona, Objective-C, and Kotlin. Recently, I've taken the initiative to learn Python and Ruby and have developed several applications using these languages. I'm becoming partial to Python and Ruby due to their simple language and the proliferation of user-developed modules and libraries, which help me to accelerate the development process and yield more efficient code."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
Technical
30. How do applications interact with system software?
How to Answer
This is the first of what will likely be a series of technical questions meant to determine your level of skills in developing applications. It allows the interviewer to begin to understand your knowledge of how apps interact with other IT infrastructure components and the people who use them. Technical questions should be answered directly and succinctly, with little embellishment or additional details. The interviewer will follow up with a technical question if they need more information.
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"A computer's system software controls the system's operation and provides an environment for the user to access applications and other computer services. Applications depend on the system software and hardware to function. Apps use code and instructions to access the computer hardware, system software, and other services such as access to the internet. The user interface for the app will be different to comply with the standards of different systems."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"The system software, also known as the operating system of a computer, determines how an application, or app, will function and what it will look like to the user. The system software provides the application with access to hardware and software resources included with the system and the ability to communicate with other programs and users via the network and internet. The look and feel of the app, known as the user interface, will also differ depending on the type of operating system it is running on. This makes it easier for users to utilize the software due to their familiarity with buttons and commands the app presents to them."
Written by William Swansen on September 7th, 2021