According to the 2022 Stack Overflow survey of 61,302 developers worldwide, nearly 47% of respondents identified as “full stack”.

Companies of all sizes consistently seek out full-stack developers, often referred to as "the Swiss army knives of the development world." These individuals possess remarkable versatility, equipped with a diverse set of technical and soft skills that prove invaluable to any team. By hiring full-stack developers, companies can tap into their proficiency in both front-end and back-end development, as well as their ability to collaborate and lead. However, before bringing on board a full-stack developer, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the expectations associated with this role.

What is a full-stack developer?

drag embedded assetpublisheddeveloper-question

You might be familiar with the terms front-end and back-end developers, so let's begin by exploring these roles.

A front-end developer primarily focuses on the visual aspects of your website or application, specifically the presentation of your product. This role demands proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Front-end developers strive to communicate information on a website in a manner that is engaging, impactful, and visually appealing.

Back-end developers, on the other hand, focus primarily on the functionality of the website or application. Back-end development involves tasks such as creating, modifying, and managing data using scripting languages like PHP, Ruby, and Python. The role of a back-end developer involves writing code that receives information from the user and stores it in a database. Their expertise lies in ensuring that the back-end processes function smoothly and effectively.

Full-stack developers possess a unique combination of skills from both front-end and back-end development. They are capable of taking on a diverse range of tasks involved in building and maintaining web pages or applications. This includes activities such as code review to identify and address errors, offering valuable input on user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, and even managing client relationships. The role of a full-stack developer encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, making them a versatile asset to any development team.

Here are a few examples of responsibilities that a full-stack developer may be entrusted with, as outlined by Indeed:

1. Conduct thorough testing of modifications made to previously developed programs.

2. Oversee the entire lifecycle of software and applications, from the initial concept to the final launch.

3. Perform software or application upgrades after their deployment.

4. Offer valuable feedback to site managers throughout the development process.

These are just a few instances of the various tasks and responsibilities that a full-stack developer might be called upon to fulfill. Their wide-ranging skill set enables them to contribute effectively in different stages of the development lifecycle.

Full-stack developers are frequently regarded as entrepreneurs within the development community. They possess versatility, foster collaboration, and have hands-on experience with a diverse array of programming languages and tools. In an evolving landscape where AI and other emerging technologies are increasingly integrated, full-stack developers often assume the responsibility of overseeing and managing such projects as well. Their multidisciplinary expertise makes them well-suited to navigate and lead in this rapidly advancing technological landscape.

Streamline your hiring process and gain direct access to Develative's meticulously screened remote tech talent ->

Difference Between Full-Stack Developer & Software Engineer

drag embedded assetpublisheddev-work

For some people, the description of a full-stack developer might seem similar to that of a software engineer. In reality, a software engineer has a broad job description that actually covers full-stack web development.

Randstad wrote: “Full-stack web development is a subset of software engineering – a job that involves handling all the work of databases, servers, systems engineering, and clients – and requires someone who is at home with front-end and back-end technologies,”.

Both software engineers and full-stack developers can be considered generalists, as they possess expertise in various engineering and development tasks. Full-stack developers, as previously mentioned, have knowledge of HTML, CSS, Ruby, Python, and PHP, along with an understanding of web architecture. They also excel in structuring code, and managing data and databases.

Typically, software engineers possess expertise in a minimum of two programming languages, such as C++, Java, C#, Python, or Ruby. While they may excel in design capabilities compared to full-stack engineers, their proficiency in project management might be comparatively lower.

The primary distinction between these positions lies in career progression. Full-stack developers often occupy leadership positions, whereas software engineers function under their guidance. Full-stack developers are valued for their collaborative abilities, which include soft skills like time management, meticulousness, and effective communication. In contrast, software engineers operate independently as well as in teams, placing less emphasis on their need for extensive leadership experience.

11 Full-Stack Developer Skills

We have provided a brief overview of the numerous skills that are crucial for full-stack developers to achieve success. In the present job market, competition is fierce, as each candidate brings unique coding and design proficiencies to the forefront. Nonetheless, here is a compilation of the front-end, back-end, and specialized skills that you should consider when recruiting a full-stack developer.

drag embedded assetpublishedfull front back

Front-end development skills

drag embedded assetpublishedbwgg

1. Javascript

The fundamental and highly valuable skill that a full-stack developer must possess is JavaScript. It consistently ranks as the second-most sought-after language, right after Python, among developers surveyed on Stack Overflow. JavaScript empowers developers to craft intricate style declarations, facilitate advanced mathematical computations, and retrieve content from other web pages. Ultimately, this language enables the creation of captivating, animated, and engaging web pages.

2. HTML

HTML serves as another fundamental building block for full-stack developers. It plays a crucial role in determining the structure and linking of web pages, while also instructing the browser on how to display the content. The proper usage of HTML tags influences various aspects, ranging from the styling elements to the search engine optimization (SEO) effectiveness of the website.

3. CSS

Lastly, CSS remains consistently one of the most utilized languages in front-end development. Developers employ CSS to enhance the aesthetics of a webpage by incorporating color and style-based code into the structural elements defined in HTML.

Instead of struggling to secure tech talent, gain immediate access to developers today ->

Back-end development skills

drag embedded assetpublishedbackend-dev

1. Python

Python is a versatile and user-friendly coding language that significantly improves the efficiency of data visualization. Moreover, it accommodates various coding styles and promotes effective collaboration among back-end developers.

2. Java

Java and Python are frequently compared in terms of popularity, as both are high-level programming languages that present significant prospects for developers. With their high efficiency, they find extensive usage in diverse areas of technology, such as web development, API creation, app development, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and more. However, each language has its own specific use cases, emphasizing the need for a full-stack developer to be well-versed in both Java and Python.

3. SQL

SQL (Structured Query Language) is a programming language specifically designed for databases and backend development. As Columbia Engineering notes, since nearly all websites rely on backend data storage, SQL serves as a fundamental tool for developing proficiency in database-oriented operations within full-stack development. This is especially crucial when working with software designed to handle sensitive data securely.

4. Go

Commonly known as Golang, has rapidly emerged as a popular programming language, gaining recognition for its simplicity and efficiency. With a strong emphasis on concurrency, Go offers a compelling platform for developers seeking optimal performance. It finds extensive applications in backend development, network programming, cloud services, and building scalable applications.

Partner with Develative today and bring aboard exceptional, high-performing software engineering experts ->

General skills

drag embedded assetpublishedProgressive-Web-Apps

1. Web Architecture

Web architecture encompasses the strategic planning and design of a website's technical, functional, and visual elements prior to its deployment. Website architects collaborate with both backend and frontend developers to transform concepts into a tangible product, establishing the foundational structure required for a robust and unified end result. Consequently, full-stack developers benefit from having experience in web architecture as it enables them to effectively oversee the entire development process.

2. Problem-solving

The process of development relies not only on technical expertise but also on a touch of creativity. Full-stack developers excel as critical thinkers, capable of effectively tackling backend issues, overcoming design limitations, and successfully completing projects. The diverse skill set of software developers equips them with the capability to devise innovative and unconventional solutions that meet specific business requirements. By thinking outside the box, full-stack developers can bring fresh perspectives and deliver optimal outcomes for their projects.

3. Teamwork

Possessing patience and strong teamwork skills can significantly propel the career growth of full-stack developers. As development teams are often geographically dispersed, effective communication and overcoming cultural differences become crucial aspects. Detail-oriented and collaborative, full-stack developers excel at delegating tasks efficiently and managing all the components and team members involved in delivering the final product. Demonstrating patience becomes a valuable virtue in navigating such scenarios and fostering a harmonious work environment.

4. Communication

Effective communication is crucial for developers across the board, but it holds even greater significance for full-stack developers who act as intermediaries between multiple teams and skill sets. In addition to managing their own projects, full-stack developers often engage with clients, coders, domain managers, and various internal departments. Their ability to communicate efficiently is a key factor that elevates their demand and value in the industry.

drag embedded assetpublishedfun-games-in-office

How Develative Can Help Provide the Best Full-Stack Developers

Develative provides a comprehensive solution that combines localized talent sourcing, a rigorous vetting process, and an easy-to-hire business model to support companies in acquiring skilled full-stack engineers, along with professionals possessing a diverse range of skills.

Our approach is straightforward yet effective. At Develative, we tackle your hiring challenges by connecting your company with senior-level full-stack developers. We focus on interviewing and evaluating exceptional remote candidates who possess outstanding qualifications, verified skills, strong English proficiency, and availability in your designated time zone.

Leveraging our extensive global network, we tap into local markets with favorable salary indicators without compromising on quality. This allows our clients to optimize their hiring budget by offering competitive compensation that exceeds the local average.

Prior to presenting a full-stack engineer for your company's consideration, we meticulously assess their proficiency in the outlined skills and beyond. By partnering with us, you gain access to the finest talent pool meticulously matched to your industry, company culture, and project requirements.

To delve deeper into our approach, we encourage you to explore our blog and initiate the process of hiring your first full-stack developer to experience the distinctive qualities that set us apart.