Are software developers underpaid for the value they add to a business and they amount knowledge they have?

Question

To be a software developer requires a higher intellect than the average person, knowledge of multiple programming languages, frameworks, http protocols, databases, etc. Writing code often requires a lot of intellectual effort, as compared to someone in upper management who just answer emails, updates spreadsheets, and makes phone calls all day and makes twice as much money.

Answer 1

There are definitely cases where this does happen, especially if upper management doesn't realize the value the programmer is bringing to the company. Programmers will end up working for less because they don't realize they could be making more, are comfortable where they are and don't want to start a new job, or if the job market isn't very good so can't find a better paying position. As for managers doing less, they might be the case, but pay is not just based on what a person does, but how much responsibility they have. If a manager has 10 programmers working for them and any one of them screws up, then the manager is also responsible. A manager may also be on call 24/7/365 where a programmer might be able to go home at the end of the day and not have to worry about his job. Personally I am happy as a programmer. If someone offered me a management position for twice my salary I wouldn't take it.

Answer 2

Why would you think that a "software developer" would agree to work for less than what he or she is worth? The salary is agreed upon in advance, just like any other job.



By the way, upper management has to know EVERY thing about EVERY task so he or she can divide the work load properly, so why do you think he is less intellectual? He had to graduate university in his major just like every one else does. I've never been in management, but your question is insulting and demeaning, and I would NEVER want to take on the responsibilities, headaches, etc., that come with upper management!



Re-think your attitude!

Answer 3

I don't care what job you get the managers will always make more and "do less".



but the reality is there can only be one manager there can be several programmers...............



I don't think you have intellectual ability if you don't understand there's a lot more to being a manager than " answer emails, updates spreadsheets, and makes phone calls all day"

Answer 4

1

Answer 5

I agree. Managers do their tasks, but I understand where you are coming from.

Answer 6

Why would it require higher intellect? Maybe they all have higher than yours.

Answer 7

no