AGI stands for "Artificial General Intelligence". This refers to an artificial intelligence that can think and learn in just as many ways as a human. An AGI can understand and solve various tasks without being specially trained for them. It can recognize new problems, draw logical conclusions and adapt to new situations. A real AGI would not be limited to one specialist area, but would act independently in many areas.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a technique in which computers and machines are programmed to perform tasks that normally require human thought. This includes learning, solving problems and recognizing patterns. AI can help to quickly analyze large amounts of data and make decisions. It is used, for example, in voice assistants, in medicine and in industry to improve processes and support people.
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An API or interface is a kind of bridge between different software programs. It defines how programs can talk to each other and exchange data. Developers use an API to securely request functions or information from another program. An API describes exactly what input it expects and what output it delivers. This allows different systems to work together easily, integrate new functions and exchange data.
Accessibility in software development means designing digital products - such as websites, apps or software - in such a way that all people can use them, regardless of physical or cognitive limitations. This can include strong contrasts for people with visual impairments or ensuring that a website can be operated entirely using the keyboard for people with motor impairments.
Authentication is a process that checks whether someone is really who they claim to be. For example, you enter a password, a PIN or a fingerprint. Sometimes a code is also used via SMS. The aim is to prevent unauthorized access to computers, accounts or data and to increase security.
The backend is the part of a software or website that works in the background and takes care of the processes. It is on the server and takes care of data, calculations and rules. Users do not see the backend directly. It receives requests from the user interface (front end), processes them and sends back results. Without the backend, many functions would not work.
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Branching is a process in software development that allows you to work on different versions of a project in parallel. The main development branch is split and a new branch is created. In this branch, you can try out new ideas or fix bugs without changing the main branch. Once the work has been completed, this branch can be fed back into the main branch. This results in comprehensible processes and secure code.
In software development and cloud computing, a bucket is a storage container used to organize and store data, typically in object-based storage systems. A bucket is often associated with cloud services such as Amazon S3 (Simple Storage Service). It stores objects, which can be files or data, with each object within a bucket having a unique identifier. Buckets help organize large amounts of data so that it can be managed and accessed more efficiently. They are used to store images, videos, backups and other file types and can be configured with access permissions to control who can access them or make changes.
A bug is an error in a computer program or software. It ensures that the program does not work as it should. Sometimes the program crashes, shows incorrect results or no longer responds at all. Programmers look for bugs in order to find and fix them. This process is called debugging. Once all bugs have been eliminated, the software works reliably and correctly.
Business logic refers to the collection of rules and processes that define how a company works. It describes which steps are required to fulfill tasks. Business logic ensures that data is processed correctly and rules are adhered to. For example, it decides when an order is accepted or rejected. The business logic lies between the user interface and the database. This keeps the process clear and concise.
CRUD is an abbreviation from the world of databases and stands for Create, Read, Update and Delete. Create means to create something new, Read means to read or display something, Update means to change or update something and Delete means to delete something. CRUD functions can be used, for example, to create, view, edit or delete entries in a database. These four basic functions are important for many software applications.
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A citizen developer is someone who creates apps or programs themselves without special programming training. They use simple software tools, often so-called low-code or no-code platforms. This allows employees in companies to build their own solutions without having to wait for the IT department. Citizen developers help to complete tasks faster and improve processes. They contribute technical knowledge from their everyday work and thus develop suitable applications.
A client is a computer program or device that accesses services and data from a server via a network. The server provides information and functions, while the client sends requests and receives responses. This often happens over the Internet or in a local network. Examples of clients are web browsers, email programs or apps on smartphones. Clients enable access to remote resources and offer a user-friendly interface. This makes it easy for a user to work with remote systems.
Client-side means that certain tasks or calculations take place directly in the user's browser and not on a remote computer on the Internet. When something is performed on the client side, the browser loads small programs or scripts for this purpose. This allows websites to react faster because many steps no longer have to be sent to a server via the Internet. Examples of this are animations, form entries or small games.
In software development (especially in web and app development), "component" refers to a reusable building block of a user interface (UI) or functionality. Components help to develop software in a modular, structured and maintainable way.
A Data Processing Agreement (DPA) is a contract between a data controller and a data processor that regulates how personal data is processed. It ensures that the processing is carried out in accordance with data protection laws, that security measures are complied with and that the rights of the data subjects are safeguarded.
A database is a system in which information is stored in an organized manner. It helps to manage large amounts of data securely and clearly. Data can be easily searched for, added, changed or deleted in a database. Companies use databases to store customer information, orders or stock levels, for example. Apps and websites also often access databases to quickly retrieve data. This keeps all important data well organized and easily accessible. Programmers and database administrators take care of the technology behind a database and ensure backups and security.
A data structure is a way of organizing and storing data in a computer so that it can be used easily. It determines how data is related and how it can be quickly found, added or deleted. Examples are lists, tables, trees or stacks. Depending on the task, the appropriate data structure is selected to make the program faster and simpler and to avoid errors. Data structures are important for every computer program.
Debugging is the process by which programmers search for errors in a computer program and correct them. They take a close look at the program code and check why the program is not working properly. Special tools and test runs are used to find the point with the problem. This makes the program error-free and stable again. Debugging is important for good software.
Deployment means that finished software or programs are brought to the computers or servers on which they are to be used later. The software is installed, set up and tested. Developers or technicians check whether everything is running correctly. If necessary, they adjust settings and correct errors. The aim is for users to be able to use the application without any problems. Deployment ensures that new functions become available.
Deprecated means that a function, method or element in a piece of software is obsolete. Developers recommend no longer using this obsolete element because it may be removed in future versions. Instead, a newer or better alternative should be used. Deprecated helps programmers to keep the code up to date and secure. If something is marked as deprecated, this indicates that you will soon have to switch to a different solution.
A div is an element from the HTML language that can be used to mark areas on a website. It is used to summarize and structure other elements such as text, images or links. A div itself does not create any specific content, but helps to design the layout or work with CSS and JavaScript. This makes it easy to control the appearance and behavior of sections of a website.
Edge functions are server-side functions that are executed at geographically distributed points in the network (edge) instead of in central data centers. They enable fast processing of requests close to the end user, which reduces latency and improves performance. They are often used in modern web applications, for example to handle authentication, caching or data processing in real time.
An endpoint is an address in a network or on the Internet. It points precisely to a function or service that can be used. When a computer or app requests something, it sends its request to this endpoint. The request is processed there and a response is sent back. Endpoints are important for web services and APIs because they describe the path into the system. This way, every user knows how to talk to the service.
Flexbox is a technique in CSS that allows you to easily align and arrange multiple elements in a container. You can define how elements behave horizontally or vertically. Flexbox makes it possible to evenly distribute spacing between elements, center elements or flexibly adjust the size of elements when the screen size changes. This makes it easy to create responsive layouts without having to write lots of complicated rules.
The front end is the part of a website or app that you see and use directly. All colors, images, texts and buttons belong to it. The frontend ensures that information looks good on the screen. Programming languages such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript help with this. The front end also receives input from users, for example clicks or text input. It makes operation simple and clear.
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The <head>-area is at the top of the HTML document and contains, for example, the page title (<title>), links to CSS files, fonts, meta tags (such as description or viewport) and scripts. It is interpreted by the browser before the page is rendered, but influences not directly the visible layout. Everything in the <head> is used to display the page in a technically correct way, to make it findable for search engines or to provide additional functions. This header should not be confused with the visible header area of a website.
A header is the upper area of a website or application that usually remains permanently visible. It typically contains the logo, navigation (e.g. menu items) and often also elements such as search bars, user menu or language selection. The header is used for orientation and quick access to central functions.
A hero section is the upper area of a website or app. Users often see a large image, video or an eye-catching background here. The hero section usually contains a short headline and a button or link. The aim of the hero section is to immediately attract attention and show visitors what it is all about. It helps to make important information quickly recognizable and encourage users to read on or make a purchase.
An IDE is an application on the computer that programmers use to create software. In an IDE, you will find a text editor for writing source code, tools for testing and finding errors (debugger) as well as helpers such as automatic suggestions for commands so that you can work faster. An IDE also offers a project overview to organize files and start or compile programs. This makes creating software easier and clearer.
JS, short for JavaScript, is a programming language that is primarily used in web browsers. JS can be used to make websites lively and interactive. Thanks to JavaScript, users can click on buttons, fill in forms and see changes on the page without having to reload it. The language is easy to learn and is often used together with HTML and CSS. It runs directly in the browser and can also be used on servers.
JSON is a simple format for storing and transferring data. It uses text in the form of key-value pairs, similar to a dictionary. An example: "name": "Anna". JSON can contain lists of values and nested objects. Programs in different languages can easily read and write JSON. It is widely used because it is easy to understand and read for humans and computers.
Latency refers to the delay or time required to enable a data transmission or request from one point to another. In IT and software development, latency is often measured as the time it takes for a signal to travel from a sender to a receiver and receive a response. It is often specified in milliseconds (ms) and can be influenced by various factors, such as network speed, server performance or the distance between servers and clients. Low latency is particularly important for applications that work in real time or with high interactivity, such as online gaming or video streaming.
In software development, a library is a collection of reusable code or components that helps developers to implement certain functions or tasks quickly and efficiently. It contains ready-made modules, classes or functions that can be used for frequently required operations such as data processing, network communication or user interfaces. By using libraries, developers can save time by not having to rewrite the same code from scratch every time. They enable modularized and scalable software development.
Localization refers to the adaptation of software, websites, products or content to the language, culture and habits of a specific market. This involves translating texts, changing date and number formats and adapting symbols and colors to local expectations. The aim is to ensure that users feel comfortable and understand the content easily. This ensures that content can be used and understood correctly worldwide.
Low-code is a method of software development in which developers need little manual programming. Instead of writing a lot of code, they use graphical tools such as drag-and-drop interfaces and ready-made modules. This allows apps to be created faster and with less technical effort. Even people without in-depth programming knowledge can create simple applications. Low-code platforms help to automate processes and implement ideas quickly. This saves companies time and money when developing software.
MVP means Minimal Viable Product. It is a first version of a product with the most important functions. The aim is to quickly learn whether the idea is well received by users. The MVP is shown as early as possible. An MVP helps to reduce risks. You receive feedback and can gradually improve the product. This saves time and money in development.
A Magic Link is a secure link that you receive by e-mail or text message to log in to an online service quickly and easily. The link contains a special one-time token. When you click on it, you are automatically logged in without having to enter a password. The link is only valid for a short time and can only be used once. This keeps access secure and convenient.
Multi-client capability means that a software or system can manage several customers or user groups separately. Each customer has their own area in which their data and settings are securely stored. The different customers share the same software, but without access to each other's data. This means that updates and maintenance can be carried out centrally, saving time and money. At the same time, the privacy of each customer remains protected.
A mobile app is a program that is installed on a smartphone or tablet. You can tap it to start it. Mobile apps help with reading, making phone calls, playing games, shopping, learning and much more. They also work when you are away from your computer. Updates ensure that they remain secure and up-to-date. You download them from an app store and use them whenever you need them.
A native app is a computer or cell phone application that has been specially developed for an operating system (e.g. iOS or Android). It uses the special functions and parts of the device such as the camera, GPS or sensors directly. As a result, it runs very quickly and is reliable. Native apps have to be programmed separately for each operating system. This often costs more time and money. In return, they offer a better user experience.
NoSQL databases do not store data in fixed tables, but in flexible structures such as documents, key-value pairs or graphs. They are well suited when large amounts of data need to be processed quickly. NoSQL can scale better, i.e. work distributed across many servers. Developers can add new data more easily without changing the database schema. Examples of NoSQL systems are MongoDB, Cassandra and Redis. They are often used for web applications or real-time analyses.
No-code is a method that allows you to create software and applications without having to write program code yourself. Instead of programming, you use graphical interfaces, ready-made modules and drag-and-drop tools. This allows you to design websites, apps or automations, for example. No-code tools are primarily aimed at people without programming knowledge. They save time and make it easier to implement and adapt ideas quickly.
Prod or production refers to the environment in which software is live and available for real users. This is where all applications run stably and error-free. Before the changeover to Prod, the software is tested in development and test systems. Data security, availability and performance are very important in the production environment. Changes are only implemented there after thorough testing and approval so that the user experience is not disrupted.
In software development, production-ready means that an application or feature is stable, secure and powerful enough to be used in real applications with real users. It has been sufficiently tested, optimized and meets common standards in terms of security, scalability and usability. Production-ready software is no longer in the experimental or prototyping stage, but ready for live operation. This also means that monitoring, logging and error handling have been set up.
A progressive web app (PWA) is a website that can be used like a normal app on a smartphone. It loads quickly, works without the internet and can be opened with an icon on the home screen. In this way, PWAs combine the advantages of websites (easy to distribute) with those of apps (good user experience). PWAs can send push messages and save offline data so that users can use them at any time.
A prototype is an initial model or a first version of a product. It shows what the idea could look like in reality. It can be used to test functions, form and operation. Errors and problems can be identified early on. This allows you to plan important improvements. Prototypes help to get feedback from users or customers. They can be made of paper, plastic or digital. A prototype is not final, but is used for learning.
RBAC is a security model that divides access to data and functions into roles instead of individual users. Each role has certain rights, for example read, write or delete. Users are assigned a role and thus automatically receive the appropriate rights. In this way, administration remains clear and secure. It is easier to add new users or change access rights as you only have to adjust the role. RBAC helps to prevent misuse and ensures that everyone is only allowed to do what is really necessary.
REST is a simple way of sending and receiving data over the Internet. It stands for Representational State Transfer. REST describes rules and principles that web servers and clients follow. A web server provides data as resources, for example in the form of text, images or numbers. The client requests these resources using a special URL. The response comes in a standard format such as JSON or XML. REST uses simple HTTP commands such as GET, POST, PUT and DELETE. This allows programs to communicate with each other securely and easily.
Responsive means that a website or application adapts flexibly to different screen sizes and devices. For example, if you use a smartphone, tablet or computer, the layout changes automatically. Text, images and menus fit into the available space. This makes it easy to read and use all content. Users do not usually have to scroll back and forth or zoom in and out. This ensures better operation and a better overview.
Row level security is a technique in databases that regulates which data rows a user is allowed to see or edit. The authorizations are checked for each query. Each user only gets to see the rows for which they are authorized. Row Level Security can be flexibly adapted to different roles. This helps to protect sensitive data and ensure that only authorized persons can read or change certain information. This increases data security and improves privacy protection.
SQL is a computer language that can be used to control databases. It can be used to query, add, change or delete data in a database. Many software programs and websites use SQL to store and search for information. SQL commands are like short instructions that tell the database program what to do. The language is standardized, so it works the same for many different databases. You can formulate complex questions to get exactly the information you need.
SSO stands for Single Sign-On. This allows you to log in once and then access several programs or websites without having to log in again. You only use one password and one user name for all services. This saves time and reduces the number of passwords you have to remember. Large companies and schools use SSO to simplify access for employees and students and to increase security.
SaaS is a way of using software via the Internet. The programs run on external computers or servers in so-called data centers. The user does not have to install any programs or manage any technical details. They usually pay monthly or annually for the service. The provider takes care of updates and maintenance. SaaS offers flexibility because the software can be accessed from anywhere with Internet access. It can also be used immediately, without long installation times.
A server is a computer or program that offers services to other computers in the network. When users or devices request information on the internet, the server takes on the task of providing this data. For example, it can save websites, manage emails or make files available for download. A server often runs around the clock so that requests can be answered at any time. Several users can access a server at the same time. It also ensures that data is managed securely and reliably.
Serverless is a model in cloud development in which developers do not have to manage servers themselves. Instead, a provider automatically provides the necessary infrastructure and scales it as required. You only pay for the actual computing time and the number of times the program parts are called up. Serverless applications usually react to events such as database changes or HTTP requests. This allows programmers to concentrate on the code without having to worry about server setup, maintenance or capacity planning. This speeds up development and helps to reduce costs.
Server-side means that something runs on the server and not on the user's device. A server is a computer that stores data or provides services on the Internet. If a function is executed on the server side, the processing takes place on this computer. This can be, for example, the calculation of information, the retrieval of data or the checking of entries. The results are then sent to the browser or app. Server-side processes are important for processing data securely and completing large tasks quickly.
"Staging" refers to a pre-production environment in which software versions are tested under almost real conditions. Changes are checked here before they are transferred to the production environment (live system). Staging helps to identify errors and ensure the stability of the application without jeopardizing the user experience.
A tech stack is a combination of different programming languages, tools and services that together make software or an application possible. It includes, for example, the programming language, the database system and the tools for development. A clearly structured tech stack makes work easier for teams, ensures better maintenance and enables faster adaptations to new requirements or technologies. It can be adapted for web, mobile and cloud applications. A well-chosen tech stack helps developers work faster and fix bugs more easily.
A trigger is an initiator for a specific action in a software or database - it reacts automatically when a defined event occurs.
In databases, for example, a trigger is a rule that starts a follow-up action when data is inserted, changed or deleted (e.g. fills a log table). In automation tools such as Make or Zapier, a trigger is often the start signal for a workflow, e.g. "When a new form is filled out, send an email". Triggers help to trigger processes automatically and event-based.
UI/UX refers to two important aspects in the design of digital products such as websites or apps. UI stands for user interface. These are all visible elements, such as buttons, colors and images. UX stands for user experience. It describes how easy and pleasant the application is for the user. A well-designed UI/UX ensures that people quickly find their way around and enjoy working with the product. As a result, users work faster and are more satisfied with the product.
Vendor lock-in refers to a situation in which a company becomes heavily dependent on a particular provider or technology. This makes it difficult to switch to another provider, as the change is associated with high costs, effort or complications. Vendor lock-in often occurs with proprietary systems or services where data formats, interfaces or integrations are not compatible with other providers. Example: a no-code tool does not allow you to export the source code.
The term "vibe coding" refers to an approach to software development in which developers generate code with the help of artificial intelligence (AI). Instead of writing each line of code manually, they describe their intentions in natural language and the AI creates the corresponding code. Well-known tools for vibe coding include Lovable and Bolt.
Visual development is an approach to software development in which applications are built using graphical user interfaces instead of traditional code input. Developers use visual editors to create logic, data flows, UI elements and interfaces via drag-and-drop or configuration - often in low-code or no-code platforms such as WeWeb, Flutterflow or Xano.
WYSIWYG stands for "What You See Is What You Get". It means that you see on the screen exactly how it will be printed or published later. For example, in word processing programs or website editors: you can view fonts, colors and images directly while editing. This saves you time because you don't have to switch between editing and previewing.
A webhook (sometimes also called a mailhook) is a technique in which one piece of software automatically sends a message or data to another piece of software as soon as a certain event occurs. This can be, for example, when someone fills out a form or when an order is confirmed. The first software sends an HTTP request or an e-mail to a predetermined address. The receiving software can then react immediately and, for example, display a message or save data. This means that programs do not have to constantly ask whether new information is available. They receive the data automatically at the right time.
A web app is an application that runs in an Internet browser and does not need to be installed on a computer or smartphone. It is opened via an Internet address. Web apps use the web to display or edit data. They work on many devices such as PCs, tablets and cell phones. A web app is maintained and updated centrally on the server. This means that all users always have the latest version available.
A workflow is a structured sequence of tasks or processes that are executed automatically or manually in order to achieve a specific goal. In software development or automation, a workflow describes how data flows from one step to the next - e.g. from filling out a form to the confirmation email. Workflows can be simple processes (e.g. "When new message → Send notification") or complex, multi-stage processes with conditions, loops and branches. They help to process recurring tasks efficiently, reliably and often automatically.
iPaaS stands for Integration Platform as a Service. It is a cloud solution that helps to connect different software applications and data sources. Companies use iPaaS to automatically exchange data and simplify processes. With iPaaS, they do not need their own infrastructure or special programming. The platform provides tools to set up, monitor and manage connections. This means that all systems work together smoothly.
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