We analyze the 2024 results of the Stack Overflow Annual Survey
Stack Overflow conducts an annual survey to gain a global perspective on software developers.
This annual survey analyzes data on the demographic profile of developers and the most popular technologies. It also examines trends in programming learning, work experience, job satisfaction, and common challenges, among other issues.
In May, 65,437 programmers from 185 countries (mainly Europe) responded to the 14th annual survey. This year, 29,000 professional developers participated in the survey. Below, we analyze the data obtained from their responses.
What are the technological trends?
Programming Languages
First, the topic of the most used programming languages was addressed. Among professional developers, JavaScript leads (64.60%), followed by SQL (54.1%) and HTML/CSS (52.9%). JavaScript has always been the most popular programming language among developers. The only exceptions were the years 2013 and 2014, when SQL was the most popular. This fact highlights its versatility and ability to adapt to different applications, from web development to backend.
In addition to these languages, C# remains very important. It is used by 28.8% of professional developers, especially in enterprise and desktop application development.
Regarding admiration and desire for use, JavaScript, Python, and SQL are highly desired and admired programming languages. However, this year, Rust has become the most admired programming language with a score of 82.2%. Known for preventing common errors, this tool is becoming preferred for projects requiring high reliability and performance.
Cloud Platforms
Another highlight is cloud platforms.
The survey reveals the following interesting trends. AWS (Amazon Web Services) remains the most used cloud platform, with 52.2% of professional developers reporting its use. Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform (GCP) are also popular, with 29.7% and 24.9% usage respectively. This diversification in the use of cloud platforms suggests that organizations leverage the unique strengths of each provider to optimize their operations and improve efficiency.
Databases
Regarding databases, PostgreSQL (48.7%) and MySQL (40.3%) lead usage among professional developers. Meanwhile, Microsoft SQL Server (25.3%) remains an important option in enterprise environments, especially due to its integration with other Microsoft tools and its ability to handle large volumes of data.
Frameworks and Technologies
The survey also details that in the use of web frameworks and technologies, React remains one of the most popular, used by 41.6% of professional developers. It is followed by Node.js, with 40.7% usage. Despite being an older technology, jQuery maintains its relevance with 22.5% usage due to its simplicity and effectiveness in DOM manipulation. Angular is also significant, with 19.4% usage, especially in enterprise applications that require a robust and scalable structure.
Within the .NET ecosystem, several technologies stand out for their use and adoption. ASP.NET Core is one of the most used technologies for web development in the .NET ecosystem, with 19.1% usage. ASP.NET, although not as new as Core, remains relevant with 14.3% usage. Compared to other web technologies, Next.js (18.6%) and Express (18.2%) are also popular, showing the diversity of options available to developers.
This year, a new section related to embedded technology was added to the survey. Raspberry Pi (39.1%), CMake (28.9%), and Arduino (27.1%) stand out as the most popular embedded technologies among professional developers. This fact demonstrates the importance of accessible and versatile platforms in the development of embedded solutions.
The Role of AI in the Development Sector
As is well known, Artificial Intelligence is also revolutionizing the software development sector. How do developers see this revolution? This is also discussed in the survey.
This year, 61.8% of professional developers use AI tools. 13.5% do not yet use them but are considering doing so, while 23.4% neither use them nor plan to start.
Regarding the sentiment produced by AI, 48.3% of respondents are favorable to its use, 23.7% very favorable, and 18.9% indifferent. Only 1.2% are in total disagreement.
Another question addressed in the survey relates to the benefits offered by AI tools. 82.70% of professional developers agree that they increase productivity in their jobs. 60.80% say they accelerate learning, and finally, 58.40% conclude that they enhance task efficiency.
It is also relevant to highlight the degree of confidence these tools inspire:
- 39.3% of professional developers show some confidence,
- 27.3% are skeptical, and
- 22.9% are somewhat distrustful.
Additionally, the skills provided by AI tools to solve complex tasks are emphasized. According to the survey, 32.3% of professional developers state that AI tools are bad at managing complicated tasks.
Finally, it is important to say that 68.3% of professional developers do not perceive AI as a threat to their jobs.
Conclusions
The results of the 2024 Stack Overflow Annual Survey offer us a clear view of the current state of the software development industry. These details are crucial not only for understanding the present but also for anticipating the future of the industry.
This year, the survey highlights the continued popularity of JavaScript, SQL, and HTML/CSS among programming languages, with Rust emerging as the most admired. In terms of cloud platforms, AWS continues to lead, followed by Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform, reflecting a diversification in the use of cloud services. Regarding databases, PostgreSQL and MySQL dominate, while React and Node.js are the most used web frameworks. The survey also highlights the growing importance of embedded technologies like Raspberry Pi and Arduino. In the field of AI, a majority of developers already use AI tools, valuing their positive impact on productivity and learning, although there are still some reservations about their reliability in complex tasks. In general, developers do not perceive AI as a job threat but as a tool that enhances their efficiency and capacity for innovation.
These results show that it is essential to stay up-to-date with technological trends and adapt to rapidly emerging changes. For this reason, supporting innovation and continuous learning is essential to motivate development teams and ensure the success of the company and its projects.
At Itequia, innovation is our essence. We use the most advanced technologies and best practices in custom software design and development for all types of projects. If you are ready to transform your ideas into a successful project, contact us and let’s start working together.