Software and applications developers and analysts conduct research; plan, design, write, test, provide advice on and improve information technology systems such as hardware, software and other applications to meet specific requirements. Competent performance in most occupations in this sub-major group requires skills at the fourth ISCO skill level.

Tasks performed usually include: researching information technology use in business functions and identifying areas in which improvements could be made to maximize effectiveness and efficiency; conducting research into the theoretical aspects of and operational methods for the use of computers; evaluating, planning and designing hardware or software configurations for specific applications; designing, writing, testing and maintaining computer programs for specific requirements; evaluating, planning and designing Internet, Intranet and multimedia systems.