Programming and coding can be incredibly expensive, due to the difficulty of writing complicated codes and the high level of experience and education required to master the skill. Coding is at the center of many organizations now, but in some cases costs still need to be cut for programming. Here are five ways you can keep programming costs low.
1. Aggregate Your Logs
Logging aggregation refers to the act of putting all the code logs for an application with multiple instances or codes that are used across multiple applications into one system. Aggregating your logs allows you to put them in one location for people to access when they need to cross-reference codes or check multiple versions of an application’s code for errors. This can greatly reduce the time required to edit or troubleshoot code because your developers will only need to check one source for it. It will also ensure all code logs are stored safely.
2. Ensure Standards Are Followed
Depending on your industry or the program you’re writing, you may have access to national, international or industry standards. You should make sure your developers have access to the current version of these standards so they can make sure all your programs’ codes abide by them. Making these standards and any updates to them over time available to your developers cuts down on the time it takes them to research appropriate coding for your industry and lets them devote more time to writing code.
3. Write Evergreen And Reusable Code
Another timesaver you can easily employ is writing reusable code and making your programs as evergreen as possible. Reusable code refers to writing code that can be the basis of or support multiple applications and systems. Evergreen refers to writing code that will stand the test of time and won’t need to be updated as often. Evergreen code is typically the source code of the original program, and any new code will be added in the form of adding new modules to applications. Reusable code may be updated at any time, but you’ll need to ensure all updates work for all programs utilizing the code.
4. Leverage Computer-Assisted Coding (CAC)
There are multiple benefits to using CAC. This method can help your programmers improve their accuracy and precision, both of which can then improve overall efficiency. CAC is a supportive tool where your developers can use computer programs to streamline their access to various documentation and edit code. These uses help ensure higher levels of consistency and much lower levels of errors in your code. CAC can also assist you in reducing backlogs and bridging gaps in coverage. Demand for developers can be stymied by a lack of availability of personnel or applicants, but computer programs can pick up the slack. These programs can automate and streamline many of the workflows required for programming, so you can afford to have a smaller program development team.
5. Utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI) And Machine Learning
Like CAC, AI and machine learning algorithms can greatly improve your development team’s accuracy and efficiency to provide increased productivity. However, these programs are more advanced than CAC programs. AI and machine learning algorithms can be taught to write simple lines of code on their own and learn to recognize the patterns in your code to improve their coding abilities over time. The pattern recognition capabilities of these kinds of programs allow them to learn to write more complex codes as they run. These programs can also automate the editing and troubleshooting process, with their ability to go into strings of code to make edits and fix bugs. Your developers will still need to provide these algorithms with directions and write more complicated codes.
The methods you use to cut coding costs will vary depending on the industry your organization is in and your short-term and long-term needs. Make sure you study your needs and projections before making any cost-management decisions.