How to find the best embedded and IoT software developers

By 2025, it is predicted that the overall installed base of Internet of Things (IoT) connected devices will make up 30.9 billion unitsacross the globe. At the same time, there has been an increase in the demand for solutions meant for electric vehicles and different types of wearable devices. The result is that, according to predictions, the global embedded system market will witness a rise from USD 86.5 Billion in 2020 to USD 116.2 Billion by 2025. It essentially means that the CAGR of growth is 6.1%.

In 2019, the highest market share was enjoyed by embedded software, with a market share of 71.3 %. In the product segment, software and hardware are included. Moreover, there has been a rise in innovations within the software segment in the recent past, resulting from the increased demand.

It is crucial to understand that the three terms, firmware, embedded software, and the Internet of Things (IoT), cannot be used interchangeably. However, they are closely associated with each other. Firstly, let us define each of them to understand their differences.

Firmware is a program instruction that is written in a specific single-purpose electronic device’s memory, and it engages in low-level tasks, including the conversion of sensor signals. Typically, it is written in low-level languages such as C or assembly, and then it is translated into machine code to ensure that a given device’s hardware is capable of reading and executing this code.

Embedded software is similar to firmware, as it is developed for a specific device. The primary difference is written in high-level languages, such as Java, C++, or Python. Hence, embedded software tends to be more sophisticated, and therefore, can engage in high-level functions, including data processing and interaction with other devices. Interestingly, the firmware does not require operating systems to handle tasks. On the other hand, a special OS is required by embedded software.

In case an embedded system is connected to the internet, it becomes an IoT device. Hence, the Internet of Things includes an array of physical objects that are equipped with integrated software and a network connection that one can control and update remotely.

The process of IoT development is extremely complex, and there is a need for serious collaboration between a multi-disciplinary team of software engineers, product designers, and mechanical and electrical engineers, which will help ensure that the IoT devices function seamlessly.

Do note that embedded developers are equipped with technical expertise when it comes to embedded systems hardware design, such as schematic capture and PCB layout. It is also important for such professionals to have substantial knowledge in a host of topics such as algorithms, design patterns, data structures, as well as control systems. They must also be experts in software architecture and prototype design, firmware, hardware testing, and system integration.

Furthermore, every project’s overall security is the responsibility of embedded software developers. For both software and hardware development, each stage must be associated with various security standards and regulations.

Theprimary barrier to release efficient cycles is not the technological challenges. Instead, it is the shortage of skilled mobile developers.

If you want your existing plan to remain relevant in the future, you must involve IT groups during the inception of IoT projects. As IoT is used in different technologies, businesses must stay diligent and consider the developer resources both within the company and external talent.

When it comes to establishing a strong software development team, you can choose from among three options:

Every alternative works well for specific requirements and purposes of a business. The context of a company with no experience in embedded and IoT software development will find the first option to be inapplicable. Consequently, the most commonly used options include outsourcing IoT development or the reciprocal of such a team with an in-house software development team.

Do note that both in-house and outsourced teams can develop functional applications that augment your IoT investment’s value and reach. Since organizations today are more accepting of an open development construct, there is a need for IoT platforms to support several programming approaches aligning with the developer’s preferences.

When you are seeking an IoT solutions provider, there are three critical rules that one must follow. While it is important to consider a vendor’s expertise and track record, it is also essential to consider the potential IoT software development team’s technical skills.

Is your company all set to leverage the Internet of Things and make the most of its offerings? In industrial as well as consumer sectors, embedded devices are extensively used. This number is rising along with the demand for skilled embedded software developers. Establishing an in-house embedded software development team is often attributed to several risks and pitfalls. This can be avoided by recruiting an experienced hardware and software development company. In case you want to hire embedded software developers or a team for IoT software development services, we are here to assist you with IoT solutions that are extremely innovative and include modern technology and security systems.