In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, traditional methods of technology deployment and management are inadequate for keeping pace with development and delivery speeds.
Despite the advent of real-time automation, a paradox presents itself where a significant portion of technology networks remains reliant on manual processes. A recent collaborative study involving 317 executives conducted by Qt Group and Forrester Research reveals that an astonishing 63% of embedded code, encompassing elements like embedded analytics, is crafted by hand through customized solutions.
This poses a significant challenge: bringing innovations to market swiftly while upholding high standards of quality. The survey found that nearly half (50%) of those involved in embedded software development grapple with the dual demands of enhancing productivity and adhering to stringent quality and safety protocols. Embedded software refers to crucial systems that oversee or operate various machines, including consumer appliances, medical tools, industrial equipment, and automobiles.
“Traditional techniques of deploying and managing technology do not work for today’s fast-paced business development and delivery tempo,” emphasize the authors of the study. “Many organizations find themselves hindered in fully realizing potential benefits due to the intricacies of adapting software across a myriad of devices and operating systems. The nature of embedded development still necessitates a substantial reliance on tailor-made solutions.”
Key challenges outlined in the report include grappling with varied device environments, enhancing cross-functional collaboration, and addressing limitations in computing resources. Approximately 51% of managerial respondents express difficulties in seamlessly integrating their efforts across multiple devices, operating systems, hardware, and form factors. “Current platform strategies frequently fall short of addressing essential needs, especially in diverse and meticulously regulated settings,” the report indicates.
To tackle these issues, the authors advocate for a platform engineering approach that emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, along with the nurturing of a vibrant ecosystem and talent pool. This remains a tall order for many organizations, as at least 41% report struggling with collaboration across design, development, testing, and deployment phases of embedded software production.
“The unique requirements of both software and hardware components, compounded by the necessity to integrate a range of non-standardized devices and functionalities, consistently lead to a considerable volume of custom development for teams,” the authors underscore.
Enhancing focus on user interfaces and user experience is vital, as the report highlights. Nearly 44% of respondents argued that embedded systems often lack cohesive UI/UX design processes that prioritize accessibility and inclusivity.
Talent shortages pose a significant hurdle in the realm of embedded software development, according to the study’s findings. Concurrently, 52% regard integration with specialized tools as an essential capability to effectively deliver embedded software. “These preferences highlight an acute need for specialized talent and the importance of dedicated tools in transitioning to, maintaining, and fully exploiting the benefits of platform engineering strategies,” the report concludes.
The study’s authors make several critical recommendations:
Understand the end-user experience. “Skilled embedded developers have typically concentrated on designing electronic control units (ECUs), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), or firmware for microcontrollers. While these software types are crucial for operating machinery, embedded device manufacturers require their developers to possess a profound understanding of the end-user experience and human-machine interactions. In the embedded landscape, the functionality of final products is intricately linked to user access and interaction with these devices. Unfortunately, seasoned embedded developers often lack such critical insights.”
Web developers need to move into the embedded world. “Web developers primarily focus on human usability and user engagement. A well-designed user interface serves as the primary touchpoint for accessible services that must be delivered swiftly and effectively. However, web technologies often struggle to scale effectively for embedded platforms. The barriers to understanding the complexities of embedded development, such as the nuances of C/C++ plug-ins and cross-platform challenges, can be immense, leaving few immediate solutions readily available online.”
Push for unifying standards. “As embedded developers navigate the increasing complexity of hardware and software systems, the widespread use of digital controls across machines and devices necessitates a clear strategy that prioritizes safety, quality, and reliability as integral components of the user experience. The demand for technologies that manage both front-end and back-end elements under a singular, easy-to-understand framework to foster efficient collaboration and high-quality outcomes has never been more pressing.”
**Interview with Dr. Jane Holloway, Embedded Software Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Holloway. With recent studies revealing that 63% of embedded code is hand-crafted, what do you think are the implications of this reliance on manual processes in embedded software development?
**Dr. Holloway:** Thank you for having me. The reliance on manual processes indicates that many organizations are struggling to keep up with the fast pace of technological advancements. This manual approach not only slows down innovation but also increases the risk of errors in the software, which can compromise quality and safety—two critical elements in embedded systems, especially in industries like healthcare and automotive.
**Interviewer:** The study mentions that nearly half of the developers face challenges in balancing productivity with quality standards. What strategies could organizations adopt to overcome these challenges?
**Dr. Holloway:** Organizations need to adopt a platform engineering approach that encourages cross-functional collaboration. By breaking down silos between teams—those involved in design, development, testing, and deployment—they can streamline processes and improve the overall quality of embedded software. Additionally, investing in automated tools and frameworks can help minimize the manual coding required, thus enhancing productivity.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned the importance of user interfaces and user experience. Why is this aspect often overlooked in embedded systems?
**Dr. Holloway:** It’s often a result of the primary focus being on the functionality of the systems rather than the usability. Many embedded systems are designed for specific functionalities, and as a result, the UI/UX design processes are not prioritized. However, as we’ve seen, a lack of cohesive and inclusive design can alienate users, so organizations must understand the end-user experience to create more effective and user-friendly systems.
**Interviewer:** Talent shortages in embedded software engineering seem to be a significant hurdle, as highlighted in the report. How can organizations address this issue?
**Dr. Holloway:** Organizations might consider investing in training and development programs to upskill their existing workforce. Collaborating with educational institutions to create tailored programs specific to embedded systems can also help cultivate new talent. Additionally, fostering a culture that values innovation and creativity can attract individuals who are eager to work in this field.
**Interviewer:** based on the study’s recommendations, what should organizations prioritize to effectively transition to platform engineering strategies?
**Dr. Holloway:** Organizations should prioritize understanding their end-users and their unique needs. This involves not only enhancing the user interface but also gathering feedback from real users to refine the systems continually. Furthermore, they should invest in specialized tools that facilitate easier integration and deployment of embedded software across various devices, as this will be essential for maximizing the benefits of platform engineering.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Holloway. It’s clear that navigating the complexities of embedded software engineering requires strategic planning and a commitment to improvement.
**Dr. Holloway:** Thank you for having me. It’s a challenging yet exciting time for embedded software engineering, and I look forward to seeing how organizations adapt and innovate.
