Career Development

Career Development

12/17 Online IT Job Fair: Connect & Explore, No Camera Needed!

This online job fair is designed specifically for IT Engineers currently in Japan. If you meet the criteria below, this is an excellent opportunity for you to explore new possibilities!Participants Only! 10 Winners will be randomly selected to receive a ¥5,000 Amazon Gift Card!Who Should Attend?This event is for IT Engineers with at least two years of practical experience and Business-level Japanese proficiency.Event DetailsDate & Time: Wednesday, December 17th, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. JST (Subject to Change)Language: This event will be conducted entirely in Japanese.Flexibility: Feel free to join and leave at your preferred time – just like watching TV! The companies currently scheduled to participate are as follows:・Mico, Inc.・AUCNET INC.・AZAPA Co., LTD.・LabBase, Inc*Schedules and the number of companies are subject to change without notice.Click here to Register: Please use the same email address you registered with for GitTap.GitTap ProfileTo participate, you must have a completed profile registration on GitTap.----Ready to Explore Your Next Career Step?----If you're an IT Engineer in Japan looking for new opportunities, don't miss out! Please feel free to register if you're interested in this event. We look forward to seeing you there!Register Here!!

Career Development

11/26 Online IT Job Fair: Connect & Explore, No Camera Needed!

This online job fair is designed specifically for IT Engineers currently in Japan. If you meet the criteria below, this is an excellent opportunity for you to explore new possibilities!Who Should Attend?This event is for IT Engineers with at least two years of practical experience and Business-level Japanese proficiency.Event DetailsDate & Time: Wednesday, November 26th, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. JSTLanguage: This event will be conducted entirely in Japanese.Flexibility: Feel free to join and leave at your preferred time – just like watching TV!6:00 PM - 6:10 PM Opening6:10 PM - 6:25 PM ISF NET, Inc.6:25 PM - 6:40 PM ReNK CHANNEL Co., Ltd.6:40 PM - 6:45 PM Break6:45 PM - 7:00 PM Japaniace Co., Ltd.7:00 PM - 7:15 PM Ruby Development Inc.7:15 PM - 7:30 PM Evoltech Co.,Ltd.7:35 PM - 7:40 PM ClosingImportant NotesClick here to Register: Please use the same email address you registered with for GitTap.GitTap ProfileTo participate, you must have a completed profile registration on GitTap.----Ready to Explore Your Next Career Step?----If you're an IT Engineer in Japan looking for new opportunities, don't miss out! Please feel free to register if you're interested in this event. We look forward to seeing you there!Register Here!!

Articles in English

What is the typical way of project management in Japanese companies?

In order to be successful as a project manager at an IT company in Japan, you need to be familiar with the way project management is often done in Japan. Knowing how work is often done in Japan will make it easier to participate in projects, so it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the flow and methods beforehand.In this article, we will explain the typical project management methods and techniques used in Japanese IT companies, as well as some tips for succeeding in project management in Japan. If you would like to work in project management in Japan, please use IT-related global recruitment agency “G Talent”.What is project management?In IT company project management, the following are the main things that need to be managed.BudgetSchedule and tasksAttendance of project membersIssuesSystem qualityIn addition to managing the budget, schedule and members of a project, the project manager also manages issues and system quality. The main role of the project manager is to manage the project appropriately in all aspects and lead it to success.Reference: プロジェクト管理基本のやり方/ShelterThe flow and methods of project management commonly used in Japanese companiesWe will introduce the typical flow and methods of project management in Japanese companies. By understanding the overall flow, you will be able to respond smoothly when you become a project manager.PreparationPlanningManagementClosingPreparationWhen managing a project, it is essential to make preliminary preparations to confirm the delivery date, budget, project goals, etc. You should identify the issues and tasks of the project, and assess the difficulty of the issues, how long it will take to solve them, the nature and difficulty of the tasks, and the skill level of the personnel required. It is difficult to assess the difficulty and issues without past experience or skills, so it is also important to seek the appropriate methods and opinions of experts and experienced people as necessary.Reference: 【新人PM必見】プロジェクト管理の方法とコツ/Lychee RedminePlanningOnce you have identified and carefully examined the issues and tasks, you can work out a schedule by working backwards from the deadline. When carrying out proper project management, it is necessary to create a schedule that allows you to complete the work without overworking yourself.At the same time as the schedule, it is also important to assess how many resources and personnel are needed, and what level of skill is required for the allocated personnel. If there are not enough personnel and the schedule cannot be completed within the planned timeframe, it is necessary to coordinate with other departments to get the necessary personnel to help out. If you are also planning to train junior staff, you will need to consider who you will pair up with, and who will be in charge of training them.Reference: プロジェクト管理に必要な項目と成功のポイントとは?/NotePMManagementOnce the schedule has been decided and the necessary resources have been gathered, the project will be launched and the project manager will manage the entire project. After the project has started, it is necessary to receive progress reports from the members at regular progress meetings, and to have them report promptly if any problems arise in the methods or results, etc.If manufacturing and testing have started and you receive reports on a daily basis, you may also receive reports on the progress of manufacturing and testing, the number of bugs that have occurred, etc. at the progress meeting. In addition to progress reports, it is also important to communicate closely with project members and be in a position where you can consult with them immediately about even small matters.In many projects, it is common for some kind of problem to occur. It is necessary to have a system in place where the project manager is always aware of the situation and can deal with any problems as soon as they arise.Reference: 進捗会議で何を話すのか/サル先生のプロジェクト管理入門ClosingOnce the delivery is complete and all the steps in the schedule have been completed, the project is closed. Closing is the process of reviewing the project content and results and compiling information to be used in future projects. The project manager analyzes the causes of any deviations from the original plan, why these deviations occurred, what went well and what did not, and summarizes the results. For the next project, it is also necessary to summarize the areas that should be reflected on and the areas that should be utilized in the next project.Reference: プロジェクトや工程終了時に行う7つのポイント – プロジェクト・フェーズ終結/プロマネ研究室Common Project Management Methods in JapanFrom here, we will introduce some of the specific methods of project management commonly used by Japanese companies. By becoming familiar with the methods introduced here, you can reduce the chances of being confused when managing projects for the first time at a Japanese company.Gantt chartWBS (work breakdown structure)CCPMWaterfall developmentPERT diagramAgile developmentGantt chartThe Gantt chart is the oldest method of project management. It is managed in a format similar to Excel, with tasks lined up in order from the top row, and the number of days passes as the columns move to the right.A bar is set for each task, with the left edge being the start date of the task and the right edge being the completion date. The upper and lower bars are divided into the planned and actual, and as progress is made, the actual fills in.The tasks are arranged in a staircase-like pattern, and it is easy to see at a glance how much the planned and actual progress deviate from each other. However, there are also disadvantages, such as it being difficult to understand the relationship between tasks and it being difficult to respond to major schedule changes.Reference: ガントチャートって何ですか?/ITmediaWBS (Work Breakdown Structure)WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) is a method of breaking down tasks into smaller tasks and creating a schedule for them. For example, in the testing process, it is necessary to set the perspective, identify items, prepare for reviews and testing environments, create test data, conduct tests, and check the results. Once the necessary tasks have been identified, the schedule for the tasks is decided and implemented.By using this method, you can identify what needs to be done to reach the goal and how much work will be involved. However, it also has some disadvantages, such as being subjective and making it difficult to break down tasks.Reference: WBS(作業分解構造図)とは?ガントチャートとの違いや作り方を基礎から解説/マイナビクリエイターCCPMThis method, known as Critical Chain Project Management, is often used for large-scale projects, and is a method of minimizing tasks and budgets and allowing for a buffer in the schedule.It is said that when deadlines for work are set, people often do not start work until the very last minute, so by setting a deadline with a buffer rather than a true deadline, you can eliminate waste and shorten the schedule. However, if an inexperienced manager uses this method, they may end up taking too much of a buffer and creating an unrealistic schedule, so it is a method for experienced managers.Reference: CCPM(クリティカルチェーン・プロジェクトマネジメント)とは?大型プロジェクトにはCCPMを取り入れよう/株式会社システムイングレータWaterfall developmentWaterfall development is a method of arranging processes in order, like the flow of water, and has been used for a long time. For example, the project schedule is made up of the following stages: requirements definition, external design, internal design, manufacturing, testing, delivery, and operation.Waterfall development is often used for large-scale projects where the schedule and work content remain largely unchanged. In the case of large-scale systems where functions are added repeatedly, the project stages remain largely the same. If the work process is established, it is easy to make a schedule and to steadily carry out the project.However, it is not suitable for projects where the schedule is difficult to change, where a major problem occurs and the plan goes awry, or for short-term projects.Reference: ウォーターフォール開発とは?メリットとデメリットを解説。ほかの開発手法も紹介!/発注ラウンジPERT DiagramA PERT diagram is a chart that shows the order of tasks and work within a project. PERT diagrams show tasks, work times, work start dates and work end dates, and the order of each task is shown using arrows. It is suitable for complex work orders, such as when work on C can begin after work on A and B is complete, or when work on D and C is not sequential, but work on E cannot begin until C is complete.Reference: PERT 図とは?仕組みや作成方法を徹底解説/asanaAgile developmentAgile development is a method of project management that repeats processes in short periods of time called “iterations”. It is the opposite of waterfall development, where the entire process is decided from the start, and the process is repeated many times.For each iteration, plans and goals are set, and the process is repeated in a short span of time, with the issues and results from each iteration being immediately applied to the next. It is possible to carry out flexible and speedy development while repeatedly changing the specifications. However, it will be difficult to carry out a project without problems using this method unless you have experienced and knowledgeable managers.Reference: アジャイル開発とは? 特徴とメリット・デメリット、スクラムまで徹底解説/Monstarlab Blog5 Tips for Successful Project Management in Japanese CompaniesFrom here, we will explain some tips for successful project management in Japanese companies.Look over the PMBOKUtilize management toolsSetting milestonesCarry out risk managementEmphasize communicationLook over the PMBOKThe PMBOK is a kind of reference book that summarizes knowledge about project management. The PMBOK is the world standard for project management, so it can be used not only in Japan but also in any country where project management is carried out.In some cases, knowledge of the PMBOK is required when hiring a project manager. If you have a good grasp of the PMBOK, it will be useful when carrying out project management work in any country.Reference: PMBOKとは?プロジェクト達成のための世界標準知識を学ぼう/インターネットアカデミーUtilize management toolsTo carry out project management smoothly, let's actively use management tools. We recommend tools that have all the functions a project manager needs, such as progress management, information sharing with team members, file sharing, and attendance management. If you manage manually using Excel or other software, it is easy to make mistakes or forget things, and it will take a long time. Using a management tool can be expected to improve the efficiency of management work.Setting milestonesWhen managing a project, it is important to always be aware of the milestones. Setting detailed milestones, such as checking the direction of the work in progress as well as the deadline for the entire task, can help to prevent delays in progress and also to check the work. Setting specific deadlines for answering questions and submitting materials can also help to prevent them from being neglected.Reference: マイルストーンとは?意味や使い方を解説!中間目標の設定でプロジェクトを成功させる!/JootoマガジンCarry out risk managementRisk management is extremely important for project managers. For example, if the schedule is tight, you will need to take action such as making arrangements to get people from other departments to help out. Be prepared so that you can deal with anything that happens.Reference: プロジェクトにおけるリスク管理とは?手法やプロセスについて解説します/JootoマガジンEmphasize communicationIn order to succeed in project management, it is essential to share information and communicate with team members. It is important to actively communicate with team members, rather than just waiting for them to report.If the atmosphere is such that team members are unable to raise issues, the problems may not be discovered until they have grown in scale, and the damage may be significant. Make sure you communicate with your team on a regular basis so that you can talk to them quickly when they raise their hand.Let's find a Japanese IT company that suits you and work in project management!In this article, we have explained the typical flow of project management in Japanese IT companies, the methods commonly used, and tips for succeeding in project management in Japan. Project management is a very important element for ensuring project success. By knowing the Japanese way of doing things, you will be able to carry out project management smoothly in a Japanese company.For those looking for IT engineer jobs in Japan, we recommend the foreign IT engineer job change agency “G Talent”. They have experience in supporting the recruitment of over 200 companies and engineers from over 70 nationalities, and they have many jobs registered that will allow you to work as a project manager, so you are sure to find a job that suits you.

Articles in English

What is the typical way of doing web development in Japanese companies?

There are cases where the way web development is done differs between Japan and other countries. In order to work as an IT engineer in a Japanese company, it will be easier to do your job if you know about the methods and approaches to web development commonly used in Japanese companies, as well as the knowledge and programming languages commonly used in Japanese companies.What are some of the methods commonly used in web development in Japanese companies? In this article, we will explain the common methods of web development used by Japanese companies, the knowledge required, and the programming languages commonly used by Japanese companies. By reading this article, you will be able to obtain the information you need to carry out web development at a Japanese company. If you would like to work as an IT engineer in a Japanese company and be involved in web development, please use the recruitment agency “G Talent”, which brings together global companies in the engineering industry.What is web development?Web development is one of the most common types of engineering work in Japan and around the world, and involves the development of systems such as web services, web apps and web software. Nowadays, it is becoming more common to use web-based systems such as web services and cloud services. Because they are low-cost and highly convenient, there is a growing demand for web-based developers over on-premise systems and software developers.Along with the growing demand for web developers, there is also a growing demand for web engineers in Japan. There is a shortage of IT-related personnel in Japan, including web engineers, and there is also a high demand for foreign web developers. If you are a foreign engineer and you want to work on web development in Japan, it is important to know about the common ways of doing web development in Japan.Reference: Web開発とは?Web開発の流れや必要な準備について解説!/発注ラウンジ[7 Steps] Common web development methods in Japanese companiesFirst of all, we will introduce common web development methods in Japanese companies. There are a total of 7 steps, so let's get to know the general development flow and the content of each step.Requirement definitionExternal designInternal designDevelopmentTestingReleaseOperation and maintenanceRequirement definitionRequirement definition is the process of clearly defining the necessary functions and requirements before starting a project. The website's design, what you want to achieve, what kind of output is needed, etc. are all defined in detail, and a document is created that summarizes these requirements.Once the requirements have been more or less finalized, the necessary budget, personnel, project period, etc. are also decided at this stage. In Japan, it is often the case that a solid plan is made at the beginning of the requirements definition process. For this reason, it is said that the schedule tends to slip and work becomes tight the further along the process goes.Reference: システム開発の「要件定義」とは?進め方やコツを解説/発注ラウンジExternal designExternal design is the system's basic design stage, in which screen design, input/output specifications, etc. are designed based on the functional and performance requirements and constraints, etc. specified in the requirements definition document. In addition to the external design of functional requirements, it is also necessary to design the external design of performance requirements such as the number of users, number of accesses, and response time.The external design is carried out while carefully checking to ensure that there are no omissions in the requirements. If there are omissions at this stage, it will cause major rework later on, so it is important to carry out the work in a reliable way. If a system is created with an incorrect design, it will have to be redone from the design stage, so the design is repeatedly reviewed to ensure that there are no omissions or mistakes.Reference: 外部設計書と内部設計書の違いとは?作成ポイントまで解説!/株式会社システムイングレータInternal designInternal design is the internal design work that is not visible from the outside, such as deciding what language and development environment to use, how to process data, and how to structure the system. It is necessary to clearly define the details, such as the internal operation of the system and the structure of the database. The system must be designed with lean processing and structure so that it can also meet the performance requirements.DevelopmentBased on the external and internal designs, this is the stage where the coding is implemented and the system and programs are developed. High-quality programs must be created while making full use of the programming languages that correspond to the system and programs.In Japanese companies, it is common for development to be outsourced to subcontractors on a module-by-module basis. When outsourcing to subcontractors, it is necessary to hold thorough discussions with the subcontractors to ensure that there are no gaps in understanding. Depending on the subcontractor, there may be differences in approach, so it may be necessary to iron out any differences during the discussions.Reference: WEBシステム開発のプロセス、プログラミング言語、費用などを解説/GALKTestingThe testing process is an essential part of web development. Testing helps to avoid problems and security risks, and also allows you to check that the system has been developed as per the requirements. The testing process is divided into several stages, including unit testing for each module, integration testing where modules are combined, system testing where the system is run from the user's perspective, and operation testing where the system is checked for operation in the actual client environment. It is essential to complete all tests, and bugs are collected as necessary based on the results of the tests.Reference: Webアプリのテスト工程とは?テストの内容と工数について解説/株式会社DesafiosReleaseOnce steps from 1 to 5 have been completed, it is time to release the completed program to the client's system environment. There are three common patterns of release work in Japanese companies: simultaneous migration, where all programs are released at once; sequential migration, where programs are released gradually in stages; and parallel migration, where the old and new systems are run simultaneously for a certain period of time before being gradually switched over. The method used for migration will depend on the system, the content of the program, and the company.Reference: システムリリースを成し遂げるには?/エンジニアの入り口Operation and maintenanceOnce the release has been completed without any problems, the final stage is the operation and maintenance process. The content of operation and maintenance work that is often carried out by Japanese companies includes monitoring to check that the program is running without any problems, daily and monthly maintenance, changing settings as necessary, and dealing with problems. There are also cases where you have to respond to inquiries from end users of the system.Reference: ソフトウェア・システムの「開発」「運用」「保守」の3つの仕事内容とは/Hybrid technologiesKnowledge and skills required for web development, which is common in Japanese companiesThe following three are the knowledge and skills required for web development, which is common in Japanese companies.ProgrammingFrameworksDatabasesProgrammingProgramming is a skill that is required not only when programming in the development process, but also when in charge of the design or testing process. Common ways of using it include when reviewing programs as a designer, or when checking the modified parts of a program when a bug occurs in testing. Of course, advanced programming skills are required when programming. If you have a lot of work experience in the language you are using, you will be able to do a better job.If you have skills such as being able to use advanced development environments and develop tools, you will be in high demand as a web developer. Being able to use advanced development environments has the advantage of being able to speed up compilation and detect program errors. By developing your own tools, you can also automate program checking, automatic debugging, program management, and automatic test data generation.Reference: Web開発とは?Web開発をするために必要なスキルやフローを解説/Geekly MediaFrameworksBy mastering frameworks, you can develop high-quality programs efficiently, so knowledge and skills in frameworks are necessary when programming in the development process.A framework refers to a set of pre-made source code that exists for each programming language. When developing a system, there are common functions that are used in many systems, such as login authentication, input forms, network communication, and payment functions, and by utilizing frameworks that have already been created for such functions, it is possible to efficiently develop high-quality programs.There are frameworks for each programming language, such as Ruby on Rails for Ruby and CakePHP for PHP. If you learn the framework for the programming language you use in the workplace, you will be able to program at a high quality.Reference: フレームワークとは?概要やプログラミング言語別の機能を分かりやすく解説/レバテックルーキーDatabasesIn order to be active in web development at a Japanese company, you will also need knowledge and skills related to databases. In almost all cases, databases are used in any system. You will need to design and develop databases that store data such as customer data and transaction histories, and make them easy to access. Along with programming languages, you should also acquire the skills to develop and operate databases.Reference: 【Web開発の基本】初心者が知るべき重要な概念/QiitaThe main languages used in web development at Japanese IT companiesFrom here, we will introduce the languages that are often used in web development at Japanese companies.HTML, CSSJavaScriptPHPPythonJavaTypeScriptRubyHTML, CSSHTML and CSS are essential for web development. HTML is a language used to write web pages, and it can be used to create text, images, paragraphs, page structure, etc.CSS is a language used to set styles for pages written in HTML. It can be used to specify font size, font, color, etc. There are also development environments that can automatically generate HTML and CSS, so if you make good use of these, you can develop efficiently. When working on web development, you will need to understand the syntax of HTML and CSS, as you will sometimes need to look at the source code itself to make improvements or find problems.Reference: HTML/CSSとは?初心者向けの基礎知識と学習サイト5選/SAMURAI ENGINEER BlogJavaScriptJavaScript is a language used to create dynamic screen movements. For example, moving the mouse on the screen to make an animation appear is something that can only be achieved with JavaScript. Many websites and web apps now use animated features, and JavaScript is used for all of these. JavaScript is used frequently, so it is a language that web engineers must learn.Reference: JavaScriptとは?基本的な書き方や勉強方法~入門~/AKKODiSPHPPHP is a programming language developed for website creation, and it can be used to develop all kinds of website elements. As it is not the latest programming language, there is a good chance that it will be overtaken by other languages in the future.However, there are already many websites that have been built using PHP, and there are many opportunities to use it for adding functions and operational tasks. For this reason, it is one of the languages that web engineers should learn.Reference: PHPとは?基礎知識、できることを初心者にもわかりやすく解説します/カゴヤのサーバー研究室PythonPython is a language that is used not only for website construction, but also for AI field development. It is used in AI development, automatic data processing, analysis, etc., but it can also be used for web service and web app development. If you want to work as an AI-related engineer as well as a web developer, we recommend that you learn Python.JavaJava is a general-purpose language that can be used for development in a wide range of fields. Using Java, you can develop websites, smartphone apps, software, embedded systems, core systems, and more. It is a language that is widely used around the world, so it is a good idea to learn it.TypeScriptTypeScript is an extension of JavaScript developed by Microsoft. It is highly compatible with JavaScript and is less prone to errors, making it easier to develop high-quality source code. If you want to develop web pages with advanced functionality, we recommend that you learn it.Reference: 【TypeScript】TypeScriptとは何か?/QiitaRubyRuby is a programming language that is easy to write and read, and can be used to develop web apps and other software. There is an excellent framework called Ruby on Rails, and by making use of it, you can carry out development efficiently. Due to the existence of an excellent framework, it is expected to continue to be used in the future. It also has potential, so if you want to become a web developer, it is one of the languages you should learn.Reference: プログラミング言語のRubyとは?特徴やできることを解説/発注ラウンジLet's get active as a web developer by referring to the methods commonly used by Japanese companies!In this article, we have explained the methods and necessary knowledge for web development in Japanese companies, as well as the programming languages commonly used by Japanese companies. If you keep in mind the development methods commonly used by Japanese companies, it will be easier for you to participate in web development projects at Japanese IT companies. By acquiring the commonly used knowledge and programming languages in advance, you may be able to make a career change more advantageous.We recommend that foreign nationals looking for IT engineer jobs in Japan use the job-placement agency for foreign IT engineers, “G Talent”. This is a job-placement site for foreign engineers living in Japan, but it also handles engineer jobs for Japanese people.It has a track record of supporting the recruitment of over 200 companies and helping over 70 nationalities of engineers find new jobs. There are plenty of IT jobs at companies where you can work in a fair environment regardless of your nationality, so you're sure to find a web engineer job that suits you.

Career Development

5G and Its Impact on the IT Industry in Japan

The release of 4G LTE in 2009 surprised many mobile phone users and several industries in the world for its faster speeds and low latencies. With the rise of multiple innovations in the tech industry, connectivity has become an integral element to take us a step further into realizing a more digitized, safe, and comfortable environment.5G promises speeds 600 times faster than 4G to cope with next-generation technologies. It could put mobile internet on par with Google Fiber’s standard home broadband service. No wonder 5G has become the ultimate buzzword in the tech industry! But internet speed aside, how important is 5G to the world?5G and TechnologyThe success of businesses in the future depends on their ability to do operations remotely and automatically. The lower latency and faster data transfer provided by 5G could boost and enhance the production of autonomous devices and other tech initiatives. Here are some of the advantages that 5G provides.Autonomous CarsAutomotive companies are taking significant steps to reduce the number of vehicle crashes recorded daily. With the application of several technologies, companies have rolled out and reinvented autonomous vehicles.The vehicle-to-vehicle communications enable cars to exchange location, speed, and destination data for alerting you and other drivers of the possible road conditions, reducing the probability of collisions. With 5G, data transfers can be done in real-time, allowing for a safer commute.Gaming5G promotes a better gaming experience for everyone in the world. The promise of lower latency is what every gamer has been longing for, banishing the dreaded “lag.” The response time is whittled down to a couple of milliseconds, providing a real-time virtual gaming experience.Nowadays, players usually insert disks to gaming consoles or download games on PCs and mobile devices before getting the game started. 5G opens the possibilities for cloud gaming, which allows users to access their games anytime, anywhere! Moreover, mobile gaming is also set to increase in light of 5G.Medical AdvancementsThe healthcare industry continues to reinvent and produce new methods for several medical operations. Thus, 5G opens opportunities for AI diagnostics and robotic surgeries, which brings medical care closer to those who need it immediately, such as the elderly and differently-abled.The possibility of remote surgeries and remote vital signs checking may be closer to reality with the fast data transfer brought by 5G.Evolution of IoTNearly all IoT devices will benefit significantly from 5G. From smart-locking doors to alarm systems, the application of 5G can enhance each of their services. IoT devices, such as doorbell cameras and fitness trackers, will be able to transmit data within milliseconds.5G in JapanJapan recently rolled out 5G for commercial use. As expected, smartphone manufacturers have been releasing one 5G-capable device after another. The tech industry in Japan is looking forward to applying 5G in machines, robots, vehicles, and especially in the manufacturing industry to fill in the country’s workforce.Though some mobile devices support the technology, there are only limited locations that provide 5G networks. Therefore, telecommunication companies are expected to invest in their infrastructure to expand and apply their service in telemedicine and other automation initiatives. The installation and maintenance of 5G devices will require the support of many IT experts.IT Careers5G is more than just mobile phones. It opens a lot of opportunities for innovation concerning automation and communication. With the release of 5G, IT companies are expected to level up their services, which requires the following IT job titles.Network EngineersThe application of 5G to enterprise networks and cloud services could create gaps in network security, which network engineers control. They will also oversee several network changes, such as installing new equipment to apply the 5G network and developing a wireless LAN necessary for building a 5G environment in the workplace.Moreover, the complexity of 5G deployments will require network engineers to focus on software and microservices, such as software-defined networking for routing and switching, software-defined radio access networks for mobile and handset connectivity, automation, and network function virtualization for firewalls and load balancing.AI EngineersWith the rapid changes in the 5G network topology in response to the changes in traffic, mobile network operators will require an intelligent and automated approach to make their network efficient. Thus, mobile network operators are expected to incorporate AI into their networks, which will require AI engineers’ expertise.IoT EngineersWith the fast development of 5G devices in Japan, IoT engineers are needed more than ever. The introduction of 5G poses several challenges in the deployment of integrated sensors, algorithms, and system designs. It is the role of IoT engineers to apply, maintain, and monitor these efforts to ensure the quality of services provided by IoT devices.Programming LanguagesSince the rollout of 5G, there has been a shift in the priority of programming languages in the world, especially in Japan. Here are some of the newest and oldest programming languages for the development of 5G technologies.Go LangGoogle developed this programming language as an alternative to C++ and Java with memory safety, garbage collection, and structural typing. Though it first appeared in 2009, its stable release was in September 2020.IT engineers are expected to process large volumes of data with the release of 5G. Go Lang is considered one of the best programming languages to work with Big Data and Parallel Processing Applications. Its execution speed is the fastest among other programming languages available. Moreover, several machine learning frameworks can be integrated with Go Lang.LispLisp is the oldest programming language used in AI development today. Though many chose Python in this field, Lisp is mostly preferred by IT engineers for logic-based AI projects. They favored its Read-Eval-Print Loop for easy interactive programming.Lisp also comes with a good environment setup like debugging, incremental compilers, and more. Furthermore, the programming language supports symbolic programming.PythonPython is among the recommended IoT programming languages for its flexible and uncomplicated language. It is the practical choice of data-intensive applications and AI development. Moreover, Python has rich features and extensive library and community support.Conclusion5G opens several opportunities that could help ease the everyday lives of people worldwide. Though the application of 5G has not been fully actualized in Japan yet, the technology is bound to ease data communication and transform entertainment and medical care in the future. However, these changes will not happen overnight. It requires the expertise of several IT professionals in the field of IoT, AI, and telecommunications.Sources:https://www.networkworld.com/article/3336867/what-programming-languages-rule-the-internet-of-things.htmlhttps://onetech.jp/blog/5g%E6%99%82%E4%BB%A3%E3%81%AB%E4%BA%BA%E6%B0%97%E3%81%AEgo%E8%A8%80%E8%AA%9E%E3%81%A8%E3%81%AF%EF%BC%9F%E6%B3%A8%E7%9B%AE%E3%81%95%E3%82%8C%E3%82%8B%E7%90%86%E7%94%B1%E3%82%84%E6%B4%BB%E7%94%A8-7345#5GGOhttps://qiita.com/SFITB/items/e1290eb4d0bd00843384https://www.xenonstack.com/blog/golang-for-big-data/https://dev.to/saikrishna_iam/top-5-best-programming-languages-for-artificial-intelligence-in-2020-5ghjhttps://www.digiteum.com/top-iot-programming-languageshttps://learn.g2.com/advantages-of-5g-technologyhttps://miraisozo.mizuhobank.co.jp/future/80137#:~:text=%E4%BB%8A%E5%9B%9E%E3%80%81%E3%81%A4%E3%81%84%E3%81%AB%E6%97%A5%E6%9C%AC%E3%81%A7%E3%82%82%E3%82%B5%E3%83%BC%E3%83%93%E3%82%B9,%E3%81%A7%E3%81%8D%E3%82%8B%E3%81%A8%E3%81%84%E3%82%8F%E3%82%8C%E3%81%A6%E3%81%84%E3%81%BE%E3%81%99%E3%80%82https://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/answer/Will-5G-networks-require-new-network-engineer-skillshttps://www.fenet.jp/infla/column/technology/155-2/https://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/1f00b57b-3f6b-4be9-ad6a-af8ea87a0581/EMCompass_Note+76-AI+and+5G+in+Emerging+Markets_FIN+for+WEB.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=mYsdFhr

Career Development

The Value of IT Engineers for Online Streaming Services

Video streaming has become part of everyone’s daily activities ever since the start of Youtube. The development of mobile devices has made video content more accessible to people, whether on a long bus ride home or while waiting in a coffee shop. By 2021, an average person is expected to spend 100 minutes a day watching online videos.Nowadays, several streaming platforms are available in every country. With the recent pandemic, online streaming consumption worldwide increased while Netflix became the top streaming platform.In Japan, most people still prefer to watch movies and shows on TV. However, the younger generation has become heavy users of online streaming platforms for its convenience. Part of its appeal is the convenient access to these streaming sites and other forms of entertainment in one device. But this type of service wouldn’t be possible without the work of IT engineers.IT Engineers in Video Streaming App DevelopmentThe influx of viewers on these video streaming platforms causes servers to shut down. It’s an IT engineer’s task to fix this and other similar issues to keep viewers entertained while staying at home during the pandemic. Their job also includes the maintenance and development of more features that would best fit any device used for this service.Building a Video Streaming PlatformsIT engineers have to be versatile in this field of work. Not only do they handle several data, but they also are working on different specializations of IT work. If you are looking forward to working in Japan’s video streaming market, you have to know the necessary tools and information to develop online video streaming platforms.Machine Learning AlgorithmsAlgorithms are necessary for any streaming services. It helps recommend to users a selection of movies they might want to watch based on their viewing history or analyze a user’s rating to improve the platform. Therefore, IT engineers must be equipped with knowledge in machine learning algorithms to provide the best user experience.Cloud hostingIT engineers working on a video streaming service handle several types of data and video content. Keeping the servers running is an integral part of the work. Instead of using a single server, companies prefer cloud hosting platforms to balance the load. If one server fails, another server kicks in and keeps your video streaming service running.Moreover, cloud hosting platforms allow quick access to video content, and it’s easy to increase their space. They are also a cheaper option compared to purchasing hard drives. Therefore, IT engineers must be familiar with several cloud hosting platforms to provide clients the best options for their video streaming service.Computing ArchitectureDeveloping a video streaming platform requires a complex architecture. A cloud architect is responsible for designing the features necessary in an online video streaming platform, such as the search engine, recommendation system, caching architecture, and A\B testing, with cloud computing.Network ConnectionDepending on the project’s scale, video streaming services must be integrated into a content delivery network (CDN) to handle significant traffic. CDNs serve a large portion of the internet today, including graphics, scripts, downloadable media files, software, live streaming media, and on-demand streaming media. An IT engineer must know the content delivery techniques needed to be applied in the service.SecurityCustomers have to input sensitive information like credit details in a subscription-based video streaming platform. IT engineers must have vast knowledge in cybersecurity to prevent these important data from being accessed by anyone.Also, the security of the video streaming service includes the monitoring of server failure. IT engineers will have to develop safety precautions in accessing accounts on different devices. They also deal with domain restrictions and watermarking for extra live stream security.Other SkillsIT engineers must be equipped with the necessary programming languages, primarily PHP, Ruby, and JavaScript. They should have experience in web or mobile application development, basic TCP/IP knowledge, and be capable of handling network and server designing. Experience in live streaming protocols such as RTSP, RTMP, WebRTC, HLS will give you an edge in the industry.Development ProcessIT teams work together for more than 300 hours, depending on how big the video streaming service is. They have to work on several functions and designs to provide customers the best user experience. Here’s a breakdown of the tasks of each stage in the development process. User RegistrationIt takes about 32 hours to work on the registration feature in a video streaming platform. The task includes testing of the email confirmation and addition of login options. User ProfileThis part of the process takes a shorter time. In 16 hours, engineers brainstorm and apply the account’s functions and personalization, such as editing names, uploading photos, and showing a user’s preferred genre, actors, and movies. Subscription and Payment GatewayIn this part of the development process, the team and the client will choose the best monetization model, whether as pay-per-view, advertising, or subscription, and preferred payment method for the video service. The application of the subscription and payment gateway features takes 80 hours to accomplish. Notifications, Content Search, and Reviews and RatingsPush notifications remind users of the new movie or series available and advise them of subscription notices and options. Moreover, the search bar needs to provide several options, such as genre, ratings, and more, to provide the best video content selection. The application of these features will take 88 hours of the team’s time. DesignThis part of the process is the most demanding of all. IT engineers must produce the best layout to provide a seamless user interface to all types of devices. The whole process could take 100 hours or more since it involves several confirmations from the team and the client.ConclusionThe market size of Japan’s paid streaming services reached 277 billion yen in 2019. With the recent pandemic, video consumption is set to increase as people spend more hours on their mobile devices and computers. The doubling of the market size from 2015 to 2019 shows that Japanese consumers are embracing this new form of entertainment.As more subscribe to video streaming platforms, the need for better content and features in these services arise. Therefore, it is expected that the need for IT engineers will increase in the industry, opening several opportunities for foreign IT engineers to fill.Sources:https://theappsolutions.com/blog/how-to/app-like-netflix/https://www.hostinger.ph/tutorials/what-is-cloud-hostinghttps://www.computersciencedegreehub.com/faq/what-is-computer-architecture/https://interestingengineering.com/how-exactly-does-netflix-recommend-movies-to-youhttps://www.smartinsights.com/digital-marketing-platforms/video-marketing/video-marketing-statistics-to-know/https://www.japantimes.co.jp/life/2020/04/11/digital/streaming-isolation-apps/https://www.statista.com/statistics/1097284/japan-svod-market-share-by-service/https://en-gage.net/itochu-cable_saiyo/work_837767/

Career Development

The Importance of IT Engineers in the Video Gaming Industry

Nolan Bushnell, the co-founder of Atari, once said that “Video games foster the mindset that allows creativity to grow.” For hardcore gamers, there is no truer adage. Video games are more than just an activity done during their leisure time; games also spark the wildest sides of their imaginations and are a huge chunk of their lives.Game developers also share the same sentiment, albeit having a deeper connection with video games. A way of looking at it is that video games are the canvas, and developers are the artists. Behind every new game released are the heart, sweat, countless hours, and tears of a development team that has given it their all into the game’s production. The dedication they have put into games has drastically changed the landscape of the entire video game world.Video game developers are some of the most hardworking professionals on the planet despite complaints of mistreatment by the same industry that they work so hard to grow. Numerous controversies pointing to unfair treatment of game developers have popped up over the years, some of which are still ongoing in some game studios.Several months of nonstop work, no overtime pay, and trying to meet unrealistic deadlines are just some of the issues that continue to plague the video game industry. These problems have gotten so bad that developers are now pushing towards unionization to ensure their rights as professionals.Although this situation should never be romanticized, game developers are completely undeterred by all the drama, still continuing to provide gamers excellent new products while doing what they love the most. Now that’s what you call passion.In a country such as Japan, where video games are a way of life, its industry is composed of brilliant and creative enthusiasts striving to put out one great game after another. One of the hardest working members of the whole field are IT engineers. Without IT engineers, it would be challenging to develop, let alone finish a game. In this article, we’ll discuss just how important IT engineers are in Japan’s video game industry.Creating the Heroes and Villains (Character Design)In the film industry, the plot isn’t enough for a movie to be successful. Motion pictures need interesting protagonists and antagonists, complete with awesome backstories plus the proper costumes and visual style. This is the same for the video game industry.Nowadays, for games to truly be successful, there needs to be a “cool” hero character and a despicable but equally “cool” villain counterpart. Both sides need to look the part. You can’t put a colorful and ridiculous outfit like suspenders and long multicolored socks on an antagonist who is supposed to be the ruler of the underworld. That wouldn’t work.IT engineers are essential in the character design process because they are very keen on creating the different personalities that make up the game. These characters are made from scratch. IT engineers consider their backstories, what characteristics define the heroes and villains, key visual elements, and the subtle or minor details that everyone loves, like easter eggs.Gone are the days when award-winning or critically acclaimed games only had characters made up of shapes and pixels. IT engineers need to create refined and well-detailed characters, even for smaller gaming mediums like smartphones, where the characters look smaller and a lot less clear compared to the ones in proper game consoles.Setting the Stage (Scene Design)Aside from the fantastic characters, IT engineers also need to set the stage and create settings, backgrounds, etc. that properly fit with the game’s time or era.For example, suppose the developers have decided for a game to be set in Tokyo in the year 3000. In this case, IT engineers will need to create an environment that feels like Japan’s capital in the distant future, complete with state-of-the-art cars, cutting-edge technology in every corner, and whatnot. For future-set games, IT engineers can let their imaginations run wild with whatever they can think of regarding the future.But for games set in the past, there needs to be a little bit more discipline. IT engineers need to create set pieces that are incredibly detailed and era-appropriate. The most hardcore gamers are quickly going to notice if a certain type of architectural design wasn’t around during the game’s set period, or how humans haven’t invented this and that by that point. So, IT engineers need to do some thorough research when creating games set in a bygone era.Additionally, IT engineers will have to add many elements to the game’s surroundings that will help players during crucial moments of the story. If a player wants to chuck a barrel full of fish at his opponent or wants to climb up a roof to gain a commanding perspective, IT engineers need to program that particular piece or area as “interactables.”Overall Game DevelopmentAlthough they are heavily involved with the game design process, IT engineers can also be found working on other aspects of the overall game development. Game developers can rely on IT engineers to be included in any game development stage because of their broad skillset.IT engineers are always willing to collaborate, good with time management, knowledgeable in multimedia development software and programming, critical thinkers, effective communicators, good storytellers, quickly adaptive, creative, and persistent.IT engineers can offer game development expertise in steps and stages such as high concept, pitch, concept, game design document, prototype, and production. During production, IT engineers will focus on design, level creation, and programming.During the programming stage, IT engineers can focus on computer programming and use their knowledge in languages such as C++, C#, Python, Java, and many more. IT engineers also have a hand in choosing the game engine, which will provide them awesome 3D and 2D graphics rendering, audio support, animation, collision detection, artificial intelligence, and networking, to name a few.Satisfying the Most Hardcore Gamers (User Experience)Even if developers put their all into the game production, the game will likely tank if the consumers and critics aren’t going to like it. A game bombing will result in major repercussions to the game developer’s reputation going forward, so IT engineers also bear the pressure in making sure this won’t happen to the development company by following some essential steps.First off, IT engineers always know their intended audience. IT engineers will tailor the game to meet the expectations of the consumers. If gamers expect a realistic racing game, IT engineers make sure that everything’s on point and the game will give racing enthusiasts a real driving experience. If players expect a more “go-kart” feel, IT engineers will make the game less serious and inject more silliness like power-ups.Second, IT engineers who work on a sequel or another chapter of an already established game make it a point to improve upon the previous edition. Players will quickly notice if the game has stayed the same since the last installment, so IT engineers need to add better gameplay elements for later versions to keep it fresh.Third, IT engineers make sure that the game they are working on will have a responsive, fluid, and somewhat realistic experience during release. Players hate when the game is slow, the physics are awful, and the animation is lousy. This is what derails most developers, as gamers are not afraid to let the world know if a game is unsatisfactory and falls short of expectations. Negative reviews like these can easily spread and affect the purchasing decision of potential players.Lastly, IT engineers create exemplary user interfaces. The user interface can be the difference between a great game and an iconic one. Chances are that you still remember the in-game menu of your childhood game or the sound the game makes when you click different options. This is how vital user interfaces are, and IT engineers know how much of a difference it makes.ConclusionVideo games have progressively become more sophisticated and entertaining over the years, thanks to contributions from personnel such as IT engineers. The significance of IT engineers to the video game industry can never be understated, and all of their efforts should never be overlooked.IT engineers work tirelessly to design heroes, villains, and environments. Beyond their usual scope, they also offer their help on several aspects of game development. And most importantly, they always emphasize the experience of users and gamers.Sources:https://www.gamedesigning.org/learn/character-design/https://medium.com/@haikus_by_KN/how-we-design-games-now-and-why-bcbc1deb7559https://www.petersons.com/blog/10-skills-you-need-to-become-a-video-game-designer/https://www.gamedesigning.org/video-game-development/https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/how-to-get-started-with-game-development/https://medium.com/@player_research/what-is-games-user-experience-ux-and-how-does-it-help-ea35ceaa9f05https://gameanalytics.com/blog/5-tips-to-improve-your-games-user-experience.html

Career Development

Popular Employment Companies for Graduates in Japan

In this article, we summarized the companies that are popular among Japanese university students who are going to do job hunting in 2021 and their reasons for international students who are looking for jobs in Japan. Unlike other countries, this is a result uniquely Japanese. If you are a foreigner looking for a job in Japan, please use this as a reference.Ranking of popular Japanese companies for Japanese university students(2021)Career-tasu Job Hunting21, a job search information medium for new graduate students, surveyed college students planning to graduate in March 2021 regarding companies where they want to find employment. The ranking is shown below.RankName of CompanyIndustryNo.1Tokyo Marine NichidoInsuranceNo.2Sompo JapanInsuranceNo.3Itochu CorporationGeneral TradingNo.4Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance GroupInsuranceNo.5Japan AirlinesAir TransportationNo.6All Nippon AirwaysAir TransportationNo.7Sony CorporationConglomerateNo.8Mitsubishi CorporationGeneral TradingNo.9SuntoryFoods & BeveragesNo.10ToyotaAutomotive ManufacturerReference:Career-tasu Job Hunting21/Ranking of Popular CompaniesBasically, only large companies have been focused in young people, and it is the same tendency in other countries. However, it is unthinkable in other countries that the first, second, and fourth place are insurance companies. What do current Japanese college students look for in employment and why do they choose insurance companies instead of the most popular Internet companies and manufacturers abroad?Why Are Insurance Companies Popular in Japan?While many companies have reduced the number of recruitment due to the influence of the new coronavirus, it seems that insurance companies have not reduced the number of recruitments. These companies have the impression that they have relatively high salaries and are stable, and that it is becoming popular that a wide range of students can apply, regardless of their major in university.In addition, the insurance industry, which was mainly a car insurance business, considering the possibility that demand for cars will disappear, has been focusing on the insurance that is applied in the event of an earthquake or other natural disasters in recent years. The insurance industry would has a high growth potential.With three insurance companies listed, it seems that job-seeking students in 2021 are looking for a stable workplace rather than a challenging workplace.Companies Whose Popularity has Risen and FallenWithin the companies ranked in the top 10 this year, some companies are popular every year, like JAL and ITOCHU, but some companies have risen noticeably in the ranking having a much higher position, like Tokio Marine and Nichido Fire Insurance.From now on, we would like to explain in detail about the five most distinctive companies in the ranking.Tokyo Marine NichidoTokyo Marine Nichido ranked 10th in the ranking of popular companies last year but ranked 1st this year. The factors behind this may be the high annual income and the international environment.High Annual InconmeAlthough the basic salary of Tokyo Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance is not much different from others insurance companies, the bonus received by each employee has a great impact on the annual income. The average annual income of this company is about 8.35 million yen, but according to the commitment and results of their employees, it is often seen that it exceeds 10 million yen.A bonus of about 600,000 yen was paid to a new graduate employee in the second month after joining the company, which makes it more attractive in terms of income than other companies. In addition to the monthly salary, employees can receive up to 100,000 yen in rent subsidies, which is excellent in welfare and can be said to be an attractive company in terms of treatment.International environmentTokyo Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance is expanding its business not only domestically but internationally as well, with approximately 45 overseas bases. Being able to work in different big cities around the world is also a reason for its popularity. Therefore, even in the working environment, diversity is spreading and it seems to be a popular place of employment for international students and overseas people.Itochu CorporationIn Japan, trading companies (Shousha) are a very influential type of business. In particular, ITOCHU Corporation, Mitsubishi Corporation, Sumitomo Corporation, etc., which are said to be “general trading companies (Sougo-Shousha)”, are always employment destinations that are popular with university students.What is a General Trading Company (Sougou-Shousha)?General trading companies procure various products such as food, energy resources, and machinery on a global scale, and sell them not only in Japan but worldwide. They have big projects which have a big impact on the country, and they also have manufacturers and financial companies, that’s why they are expanding globally.High Annual IncomeThe average annual income of Itochu Corporation is about 14 million yen, which is a very high rate among Japanese companies. Even in the first year of new graduates, the average annual salary of a general-work employee is about 5.5 million yen, which means that a high standard of salary will be obtained from the first year after joining the company.Acquisition of Various SkillsMajor general trading companies have excellent human resources from Japan and the world, and not only is there an environment where they can learn business know-how, but there is also the aspect that they can acquire various skills from excellent human resources. One of the reasons why it is so popular is that you can learn languages such as English and the skills to do business globally such as finance.Japan Airlines (JAL)Specific Benefits for AirlinesIn addition to general benefits such as social insurance and transportation allowance, there is an employee discount system for air tickets. This system is a JAL-specific benefit that allows employees to purchase air tickets at a discount of 90%. There is no doubt that it is a benefit for students who like to travel.High Annual IncomeThe average annual income of the aviation industry is also high, and among them, the average annual income of JAL is about 8.27 million yen, which is the top class in the industry.SuntoryOverseas Expansion SuccessSpeaking of Japan’s major beverage makers, there are Kirin, Asahi, Suntory, etc. Among them, Suntory has always been very popular. The reason for this is the charm of the corporate culture. As the founder’s famous phrase says “Yatte-minahare”, wich means “Just try it”. Suntory is challenging various new things, and it is also Suntory that has actually succeeded in expanding overseas first than the others beverage companies.Unlisted CompanyAs the Suntory Group is a privately held company, it does not need to produce short-term results for its shareholders, so it may be one of its attractions to be able to engage in long-term projects.ToyotaWhy has it become less Popular?Speaking of Toyota, it is the company with the highest market capitalization in Japan and the world-famous automobile manufacturer. Although it is still a popular company for Japanese university students to find employment. This year Toyota was at the 10th place of popularity, but compared to a few years ago, the popularity of job hunting students is gradually decreasing. This is because young people today are less interested in automobiles, and considering the future of the automobile industry, it is not necessarily a growth industry. As more and more students are no longer interested in cars, the number of students who want to work for an automobile manufacturer may continue to decline.ConclusionDue to the corona shock, university students scheduled to graduate in 2021 are looking for a job which gives them an economic and labor stability besides looking for a job of their liking. Therefore, we think that companies with high stability will continue to be ranked high in the future. In addition, as the number of students seeking new ways of thinking and international communication has increased in recent years, companies such as Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co., Ltd. and ITOCHU Corporation that are focusing on diversity and international development are becoming popular for job hunters.We sincerely hope that by finding a job in Japan, you will be able to achieve your desired career development.If you are an international student who is thinking of finding a job in Japan and want to get a job related to IT, please register with G Talent, a recruitment agency specializing in foreign IT engineers. Professional consultants will help you with your job hunting for free.

Career Development

Progressive Web Application (PWA): The Next Big Thing

The pandemic has made Japanese spend most of their time browsing the internet and shopping online. With the increasing e-commerce activities, businesses have shifted their resources and focus on internet marketing requiring the expertise of more developers in the country.Since more people own smartphones than laptops and desktop computers in Japan, what should developers focus on? Should it be the improvement of mobile web experience or mobile application development? The tech industry is taking this opportunity to suggest an emerging technology that can improve mobile user experience.What is a Progressive Web Application?Progressive web applications (PWAs) are websites that use the combination of web and mobile application technologies. It can deliver an app-like experience to users accessing a site or online store through their mobile website. But how exactly are they different from native apps?A native app is a software program similar to a Microsoft Office application. It only works for use on a specific platform or device. However, a PWA works like Google Docs that perform functions similar to native programs but on an internet browser.Though both applications almost perform the same tasks, the PWA’s app-like interface has made it popular among businesses and the IT industry nowadays. But since it’s new in the market, aspiring developers are looking for more information about its qualities and importance in their field.Features of PWANative and mobile applications have been in the industry longer. However, in the past few years, several IT companies have emerged specializing in creating PWAs as more businesses have seen its benefits in terms of sales and shorter development time.Here are some of the features highlighted by developers that make PWA the next big thing in the industry.1. ProgressivePWAs can work on different operating systems, such as Android and iOS, and browsers available in the market. Its progressive enhancement allows it to work on any platforms, unlike native apps.2. Responsive.The PWA’s responsive design can allow the technology to function on mobile devices and a desktop. The UI can also be designed to have a similar interface, like a native app.3. Connectivity IndependentOne of PWA’s selling points is that it can function with either limited or no connectivity due to the enhanced service workers. The loading time of websites is shortened since the website’s content is cached, which also enables offline site usage.4. App-likeUsers can add the page from the website to the device’s home screen like a mobile app.PWA Trends in JapanAn internal team of front-end developers can easily build PWAs as the technology is based on common web standards like JavaScript, CSS, and HTML.The newest PWA frameworks have allowed developers to turn a site into a PWA without issues. They can support the front-end from the platform’s back-end while supporting sales and marketing teams as well.In Japan, companies have been turning some of their business websites into PWAs. Two good examples are the Japanese newspaper company Nikkei, which has shifted from the native mobile app to PWA in 2017, and the gourmet news website Retty. The faster loading times and performance have increased traffic and conversions on their websites.Outlook in JapanNot much attention is paid to PWA since most mobile devices used by the Japanese are powered by iOS. However, in 2018, Apple added a service worker, a core function of PWA, into Safari. Other PWA features such as push notifications, background synchronization, and web manifest, are expected to be developed soon.As Apple continues expanding its PWA plugins and features, the trend for the use of this technology is seen to rise in the coming years. Thus, developers with the knack for PWA are needed in the country.Tools for PWAJapan has seen the need for PWA developers in e-commerce, and with the recent pandemic, the need for fast page display is becoming more evident.Though developers can seamlessly convert mobile websites into PWA, there are cases where they encounter complicated business websites and online stores. Thus, any changes in PWAs are to be made with extra caution. Developers should have the skill to use the right framework and tools for PWA development.Here are some widely used tools used by PWA developers in Japan.1. PolymerThis built-in PWA tool by Google contains templates and provides the best documentation among the open-source PWA tools available. It simplifies the whole development process and shortens the work needed for PWA development.2. AngularJsAngularJs is a widely used PWA tool among web development companies in the world. It has a Jason Configuration and JavaScript to build a dynamic PWA. Since it’s one of the oldest tools, it has the largest community support.3. ReactFacebook created this PWA tool in 2013. It serves as a JavaScript library for interface design and is currently one of the dominant libraries for front-end web interface design. It has better scalability, making it the top choice for building robust applications. Social media giants such as Twitter, Instagram, and WhatsApp have also used this PWA tool.4. VueBig companies like Alibaba and Laravel use this open-source PWA tool. It has easy coding and rendering features, and clear and detailed documentation. The number of Vue developers are limited, which makes them in demand today.5. Apache CordovaThis open-source PWA framework uses plugins to simplify communication between a native web and JavaScript code on the native Android platform. It is a suggested tool for developing PWA for Android. Cordova plugins include battery status, file access, and ringtones, and also supports two other PWA tools: Adobe PhoneGap and Ionic.Will PWAs be The Next Big Thing in Japan?Leading tech companies have been promoting the benefits of PWAs over native apps. It has made its way in the market and has garnered everyone’s attention in the industry for its notable features. Will it overshadow native apps in Japan? Major brand names have started moving from native apps to PWAs, and better things await as this technology continues to develop.When it comes to iOS, Apple has encouraged more of its users to create web applications instead of native apps. As Apple rolls out more PWA features into Safari, Japan will have more iOS compliant PWAs and will need more PWA developers in the future.Sources:https://itegration.com/progressive-web-apps-pwa/https://divante.com/pwabook/chapter/08-features-of-pwa.html#the-core-features-of-a-pwahttps://buildfire.com/pwa-mobile-the-next-big-thing-in-mobile/https://customerthink.com/5-best-tools-for-building-progressive-web-apps/https://www.iflexion.com/blog/progressive-web-app-frameworkhttps://medium.com/@firt/progressive-web-apps-in-2020-c15018c9931c

Career Development

Why Switching to Mobile App Development is Good For You

The coronavirus has changed life as we know it. Online education, banking, shopping, and work have become the new normal. People rely on social media apps now more than ever for news and entertainment, and hang out with friends and family via online conferencing through their mobile devices.Mobile applications have become part of everyone’s lives to the point where people download new ones every day. Google’s Play Store already has 2.56 million apps, while Apple’s App Store has 1.8 million apps available for download in the Q1 of 2020 alone. The numbers are projected to increase as people are spending more time at home.The Rise of Mobile Apps During COVID-19 PandemicThe mobile app development industry is evolving, and a wide range of factors affects the technological advancements in mobile apps such as consumer and client demands. Recently, app development is focused on how to connect people to all the information they need from their handheld devices.Playing games has also become a popular pastime among mobile users. In Q2 of 2020, over 12 billion games were downloaded from Google Play and 2.8 billion from Apple’s App Store.The pandemic opened career growth opportunities for mobile app developers as the demand for apps in healthcare, education, entertainment, and remote-work increased. Healthcare organizations and startups are collaborating with app developers to help people with health consultations. Educational institutions are revamping their curriculums so students can continue learning via digital channels and platforms.Why Switch to Mobile App Development?The success of a business can depend on how they can market their products and services to their customers. Mobile apps are powerful tools to multi-channel and maintain loyal customers, making mobile app developers important in the digital world.Aside from businesses, the gaming industry needs multi-skilled and creative talents. Mobile app developers maintain and develop updates to ensure optimal user experience and prevent them from tapping the uninstall button.As the need for mobile apps arises, so does the need for multi-skilled mobile app developers. Is a career in mobile app development good? Yes! A mobile app developer’s salary in Japan can go as high as 5 to 6 million yen annually. Aside from job security, competitive pay, and opportunities to upskill, app developers play a vital role in modernizing the world.Life of a Mobile App Developer in JapanBeing involved in the development of games and apps people use is the most rewarding and exciting experience for a mobile app developer in Japan. The country is also a hub for tech-savvy individuals who are always looking for the best apps to make their lives easier. However, there is more in the process of developing mobile applications.1. Planning and requirementsJust like any development team, mobile developers also search for the tools and create designs needed for the project, and according to the client’s requests. They plan the necessities for the project such as functions, budget, and delivery date.2. TestsThe team will implement the plans and designs for the app in this stage. Mobile app development requires a series of tests to see if the app works correctly in all versions of iOS and Android operating systems. When bugs are found, developers have to make tons of adjustments in the programming until the app is ready for public release.3. MaintenanceThe job of a mobile app developer doesn’t end when the app gets released to the consumers. Operating systems and hardware constantly change, so developers need to maintain these apps to make sure that they function effectively after every OS update and on newer smartphone models. They check reviews and collect suggestions from users and clients to implement updates in mobile apps.Programming Languages and ToolsMobile app companies require different programming languages depending on the operating system and projects they market. Here are some of the popular programming languages and tools used for app development in Japan.1. JavaScriptThis programming language is not used primarily for app development. Instead, it is used to develop browsers and web pages. However, JavaScript is essential for building mobile apps when combined with CSS, HTML, and AJAX. App developers specializing in android application development must know how to use JavaScript.It’s one of the most convenient languages because developers only have to code the app once. This programming language can also be used in iOS and Windows applications.2. C#This programming language is popular among applications in the banking industry and manufacturing. Developers also recommend C# to develop graphics & designs for game applications. It is supported by Unity3D, a cross-platform game engine, making it one of the best languages for building gaming applications.3. KotlinWhen it comes to the structure of the language, Kotlin is similar to Java. This new programming language comes with advanced features and can support all Integrated development environments (IDEs), such as Android Studio and SDK toolkit. Most android app developers in Japan also recommend it. Since it’s a new code, learning the language may be difficult due to the limited sources.4. Objective-CFor iOS apps, objective-C is preferred by mobile app developers since it is the core programming language used by Apple for iOS and OS X development. Even with the release of Swift, objective-C maintains its popularity among developers because most iOS app frameworks rely on the programming language even today.5. SwiftIt is the newest programming language and is only available for iOS development and on Linux. Swift is currently the primary language used in Apple’s APIs, Cocoa and Cocoa Touch.6. Alpha AnywhereIt is an excellent development and deployment tool for creating cross-platform mobile and web apps for business. It offers enterprise-grade mobile data security and comprehensive back-end date access.7. UnityThis cross-platform tool can be deployed on multiple platforms. App developers can edit images and organize animations from its built-in editor and animator window. It even has a physics engine and built-in camera, making in-game navigation simpler.ConclusionThe job of an app developer will never disappear. The demand for new applications will grow as new operating systems and phone models are released frequently. Since working from home and mobile transactions has become the new normal, there is already an increase for app development and maintenance.Despite the job security, app developers should continue to learn new languages since their market value changes rapidly and adapt to the latest technologies and coding methods to stay competitive.Sources:https://www.switchup.org/blog/the-benefits-of-learning-mobile-developmenthttps://www.joshmorony.com/6-reasons-you-should-switch-from-web-to-mobile-development/https://homebusinessmag.com/businesses/app-development/6-reasons-business-needs-mobile-app-succeed-2020/https://buildfire.com/mobile-app-development-trends/https://www.zymr.com/how-the-importance-of-mobile-apps-has-outshined-amid-the-fog-of-covid-19-pandemic/https://www.statista.com/statistics/276623/number-of-apps-available-in-leading-app-stores/https://www.statista.com/statistics/661553/global-app-stores-mobile-game-downloadshttps://medium.com/googleplaydev/find-success-for-apps-and-games-in-japan-af9e8fd1c139https://www.fca.ac.jp/work_books/9798/https://style.potepan.com/articles/136.html