The intricacies of code. Art by Licia Summerhill.
By Licia Summerhill, Staff Reporter
Recently, the airline industry has suffered tremendous losses due to software and system failures. In 2022, system failure cost Southwest Airlines a total of $825 million in losses and an additional budget of one billion according to Forbes.
The Southwest Airlines malfunction began the discussion of code review on social media outlets from many professionals in the tech industry. Code review is the methodical process of evaluating computer codes used to develop and implement software systems. Built as an audit system, code review is invaluable for preventing software crashes.
The Federal Aviation Administration suffered a great loss last month as flights were canceled due to a system failure used by air traffic controllers to notify flights of clear pathways. According to the media organization, Fortune, a corrupted computer file was to blame for the failure. This cost the airline industry as a whole to be completely shut down for 30 minutes and ultimately derailed flights for most of the day.
Much like the airline industry, other businesses are taking the lead to integrate efficiency and functionality by using technology to improve current processes.
When developing software to meet the needs of any given business, Kelly Dobson, a senior business analyst and certified information security manager of San Jose Water, said, “It’s about functionality, not tech. You have to have the ability to understand the goal.”
As an employee, my work involves extensive use of software that malfunctions on a daily basis. System glitches and extra mouse clicks are very frustrating for the end user to experience. My expectation is to process the work and allow the software to display the results. When the system does not live up to its promise, more work is created. Additionally, the work of a computer should be to enhance work performance. In my experience, increases in a software system malfunctioning decrease productivity and morale.
Computer coding and software upgrades allow for the automation of tasks, reduction of labor and increases in productivity. Part of integrating technology into a current business model involves writing and reviewing computer codes which then make up a system of automated computer processes.
“Every business is in business to make money,” Dobson said. “What I do is identify and implement process improvements. I have the ability to start from the organization’s goals and organizational design. I further assess whether the department is able to achieve the goals while determining whether or not to implement automation and how best to implement based on the business goals.”
While implementation is important, code review is equally important but largely overlooked in the editorial process. In the code review process, computer programmers are involved in a peer-reviewed system of steps that ultimately lead to an improved business process. Code review essentially becomes an audit of the system before it takes effect. This process allows for a double-check of the information to ensure accuracy.
When a software system is purchased, the code used to write the system is assumed to be accurate and precise. When that system is not audited correctly, system failure can be catastrophic and costly for the business involved. The integrity of the computer system relies on technicians using the code review process and methodically reviewing the code of each system before it is online and available for use.
Code review can be thought of as an editorial portion of computer software and design. When done correctly, code review acts as an editor of software before it has a chance to fail. This allows the company to confidently react to potential problems before they present themselves as a computer crash which is costly.
Code review should also address whether the program will meet the business goals along with ensuring that the software training will exist for years to come. Manuals and videos should be included in the purchasing process. This should ensure that the information of how to run the program is sufficient and can be supported by programmers over time. Simply relying on peer-to-peer training is not an effective way of utilizing any program. Proper curriculum with credentialed trainers must be passed down systematically and methodically.
Technology can be a great business tool. When done correctly, a software program can reduce workload, save jobs and streamline business processes. The support that stems from computer programming is immeasurable. As a career choice, identifying and implementing improvements to the business world can be rewarding both financially and mentally.
“If you are in the tech industry, get ready,” said Dobson. “There will be a four to five-year window of opportunity to make money [in code review].”
