On this International Programmers’ Day, which is celebrated on 12 September this year, the world acknowledges the unsung heroes and heroines who power our digital lives. At RIB, we join in this celebration, recognising the immense impact programmers have on nearly every aspect of our daily routines.

From the convenience of mobile banking apps, to the joy of earning rewards for fitness achievements or the groceries we pay for at check-out, programmers are the architects behind the scenes, translating our instructions into language that our devices understand.

Computer programming isn't just about writing lines of code; it's about shaping the future of our world. Every software application, from social media platforms to business analytics tools, is testament to the power of programming in transforming how we live, work and connect with one another.

And, as technology continues to advance, programmers will play an increasingly central role in driving innovation and shaping our digital landscape.

RIB Software vice president, Peter Damhuis, says it is hard to imagine a world without the efficiency of automated tasks, the connectivity of social media, or the endless possibilities of software-driven innovation. “It's a world we don’t have to experience, thanks to the programmers who transform our lives every day.

Many observe International Programmers’ Day on the 256th day of the year, because 256 (28) is the number of distinct values that can be represented with an 8-bit byte, and 256 is the highest power of 2 that is less than the 365 days in a year.

Damhuis says most businesses understand the invaluable contribution of programmers. “While they may not always be in the spotlight, programmers’ work is pivotal in delivering seamless user experiences that keep customers loyal and satisfied.

“By automating repetitive tasks and collaborating across teams, programmers streamline operations, driving both customer satisfaction and employee fulfilment,” he adds.

For those inspired by the impact of programming, the pathway to becoming a programmer is more accessible than ever.

RIB product line R&D director, Tony Cornwall, says for those itching to become developers, having a mentor is a game-changer. “Plus, dive into a fun project. My top pick was a meeting cost calculator clock. With your mentor’s wisdom, you can pick the perfect language or tech to bring your project to life. Start small and nail the basics; even printing "hello world" on the screen is a huge win.”

He says programming takes perseverance. “You might get stuck on a single line of code for what feels like an eternity, but don’t lose heart, you'll crack it eventually. I also recommend skipping the pricey programming courses.

If you’re creative and logical, and you enjoy solving interesting problems, you could just have what it takes to be a programmer.

So, on this International Programmers' Day, let's recognise the vital role of programmers in shaping our modern world and look forward to a future where their contributions continue to propel us forward into new realms of possibility.