Software design and coding are interconnected, but they are not the same. While many people, including programmers, often view programming as binary (right or wrong, good or bad), the reality is much more subjective. There are usually multiple ways to solve a problem, and this is where code design becomes crucial.

Just as GUI design involves visual elements, code also requires careful design. A software designer, much like a graphic designer, typically doesn’t write any code. Instead, they focus on understanding the project requirements and setting up a functional specification that outlines the technologies, data architecture, and information flow. They define the software’s functionalities and create a high-level blueprint of the software to be developed.

This blueprint is then handed over to a team of programmers who write the actual code to bring the design to life. Ideally, a software designer should have coding experience and a solid understanding of data architecture and workflows. They need to be logical and knowledgeable about the technologies being used to ensure the design is practical and implementable.

In summary, effective software development relies on a clear distinction and collaboration between design and coding, with each role contributing its unique expertise to the final product.