Why Learn Programming Languages?

I keep getting asked the same question: Why should I bother learning programming languages, or even want to know how to program?The answer is probably only applicable in layers - casual, part-time, professional - and different people want different things.

Casual Programmers

People who need to start doing some software programming to help in their occupation, plus those who just want to know how to program.

Part-Time Programmers

Those who offer custom services such as web programming and custom application programming on the side.

Professional

Anyone who is just getting started with programming, or who has had a first experience and needs to address a new technology.

There are also 5 very good ways to earn real money doing software programming, and this could be a great motivator in itself.

Custom Web Programming Services

People use the internet and want applications that are internet-ready. If a programmer can provide custom web programming services, and understand what the client really wants from it, then they will be able to offer those services on the general market.

Software Programming

Pure software programming means making applications for the end user. There is still quite a lot of business to be done in this area, although it may be being slowly eroded by open source software programming services.

Programming Training

Offering assistance to would-be programmers, especially in web programming and full software programming is very lucrative. Consider also bundling your knowledge up into interactive e-courses for the general public as an information product, and it could be a winner.

Freelance Programming

Building applications for third parties to resell is not as lucrative as other forms of programming services. However, freelance programming can bring in high usage and sale royalties if the deal is structured properly. Also freelance web programming projects are easy to come by on online talent auction web sites like RentACoder and eLance.

Programming Help

Offering on-demand programming help to people who have been burned by outsourced customer software programming projects (including web programming projects) is a good area to get started in. It can help to build a solid reputation.

Until next time;

Happy Coding!