When it comes to software development, two words that are often used interchangeably are “implement” and “develop.” However, there are distinct differences between the two that are important to understand in order to effectively communicate with team members and stakeholders.
It’s important to note that both “implement” and “develop” are valid words to use in the context of software development. However, they refer to different stages of the development process.
When we talk about “implementing” something, we are referring to the act of putting a plan or idea into action. In software development, this typically means taking a design or specification and turning it into working code. Implementation is a crucial part of the development process, as it is where the actual product is created.
On the other hand, “developing” something refers to the broader process of creating a product or solution. This includes everything from gathering requirements and designing the system, to testing and deploying the final product. Developing a software solution is a complex and involved process that requires a range of skills and expertise.
Understanding the difference between these two terms is important for effective communication within a development team. When discussing a project, it’s important to be clear about what stage of development you are referring to. For example, if you are discussing a new feature that needs to be added to the system, you might say “we need to develop a solution for this” rather than “we need to implement this feature.”
Ultimately, both “implement” and “develop” are important parts of the software development process. By understanding the differences between these two terms, you can communicate more effectively with your team and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
In order to understand the difference between implementing and developing, it is important to first define each term.
Implement
Implement refers to the process of putting a plan or idea into action. It involves taking a pre-existing concept or strategy and executing it in a practical and tangible way.
For example, if a company decides to implement a new marketing campaign, they would take the necessary steps to put that campaign into action. This could include creating advertisements, launching social media campaigns, and reaching out to potential customers.
Develop
Develop, on the other hand, refers to the process of creating something new or improving upon an existing idea or product. It involves taking a concept and working to bring it to fruition.
For example, if a company decides to develop a new product, they would start with an idea and work to create a tangible product that meets the needs of their customers. This could involve conducting research, designing prototypes, and testing the product to ensure it meets quality standards.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Choosing the right word when writing can make a huge difference in the clarity and impact of your message. In this section, we’ll explore how to properly use the words “implement” and “develop” in a sentence.
How To Use “Implement” In A Sentence
The word “implement” is often used to describe the act of putting a plan or idea into action. Here are some examples of how to use “implement” in a sentence:
- The company plans to implement a new marketing strategy next quarter.
- It’s important to implement safety measures in the workplace.
- The government is working to implement new policies to address climate change.
As you can see, “implement” is typically used to describe the process of putting something into practice. It can refer to a wide range of actions, from implementing a new system or process to implementing a new policy or strategy.
How To Use “Develop” In A Sentence
The word “develop” is often used to describe the process of creating or improving something over time. Here are some examples of how to use “develop” in a sentence:
- The company is working to develop a new product line.
- The team is working to develop a more efficient workflow.
- She’s been able to develop her skills through years of practice.
As you can see, “develop” is typically used to describe the process of creating or improving something over time. It can refer to a wide range of actions, from developing a new product or service to developing a new skill or talent.
By understanding the proper usage of “implement” and “develop,” you can ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and effective.
More Examples Of Implement & Develop Used In Sentences
In order to fully understand the difference between “implement” and “develop,” it’s important to examine how these words are used in everyday language. Here are some examples of how “implement” is used in a sentence:
- Our team plans to implement the new software next month.
- The company decided to implement a new marketing strategy.
- It’s important to implement safety procedures in the workplace.
- The government plans to implement new regulations next year.
- The school district will implement a new curriculum for the upcoming school year.
- The company is working to implement a new system for tracking inventory.
- The city council voted to implement a new recycling program.
- The team is ready to implement the new project plan.
- It’s important to implement changes gradually to avoid disruption.
- The company is looking to implement cost-cutting measures.
On the other hand, “develop” is often used in a different context. Here are some examples of how “develop” is used in a sentence:
- The company is working to develop a new product line.
- Scientists are trying to develop a cure for cancer.
- The artist spent years developing his unique style.
- The team is working to develop a new marketing campaign.
- The company is investing in research and development to stay competitive.
- The athlete is working to develop his strength and endurance.
- The organization is focused on developing new partnerships.
- Parents play a key role in helping their children develop social skills.
- The company is looking to develop a more sustainable business model.
- The team is working to develop a plan for expansion into new markets.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to technical writing, using the right terminology is crucial. Two words that are often used interchangeably but have distinct meanings are “implement” and “develop.” Here are some common mistakes to avoid when using these words:
Mistake 1: Using “Implement” When You Mean “Develop”
Implement means to put a plan or decision into effect. Develop means to create or improve something over time. The mistake people often make is using “implement” when they really mean “develop.” For example, saying “We need to implement a new software program” when what you really mean is “We need to develop a new software program.”
Mistake 2: Using “Develop” When You Mean “Implement”
The opposite mistake is also common. Using “develop” when you really mean “implement” can lead to confusion. For example, saying “We need to develop a new marketing strategy” when what you really mean is “We need to implement a new marketing strategy.”
Mistake 3: Using The Words Interchangeably
Using “implement” and “develop” interchangeably is a mistake because they have different meanings. It can lead to confusion and miscommunication. It’s important to use the right word in the right context.
Tips To Avoid These Mistakes
Here are some tips to help you avoid these mistakes in the future:
- Take the time to understand the difference between “implement” and “develop.”
- Double-check your writing to make sure you are using the right word in the right context.
- If you’re not sure which word to use, look it up in a dictionary or consult with a colleague.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between “implement” and “develop,” context is key. Both words have similar meanings but are used in different situations depending on the context. Understanding the context in which they are used is crucial to ensure that the correct word is chosen.
Implement
The word “implement” is commonly used when referring to the execution of a plan or idea. It is used when there is already a plan in place, and the focus is on making that plan a reality. Implementing usually involves taking action, putting ideas into practice, and carrying out tasks.
For instance, a company might implement a new marketing strategy to attract more customers. In this context, the focus is on executing the plan that has already been developed. The company has already developed the marketing strategy, and now they are putting it into action by implementing it.
Develop
The word “develop,” on the other hand, is used when referring to the creation or improvement of something. It is used when there is a need to start from scratch or make changes to an existing plan or idea. Developing usually involves researching, brainstorming, planning, and designing.
For example, a company might develop a new product to meet the changing needs of its customers. In this context, the focus is on creating something new or improving an existing product. The company needs to research and brainstorm ideas, plan and design the product, and then implement the plan to create the new product.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Here are some examples of different contexts and how the choice between implement and develop might change:
| Context | Implement | Develop |
|---|---|---|
| Software Development | Implement a new feature | Develop a new software application |
| Education | Implement a new teaching method | Develop a new curriculum |
| Business Strategy | Implement a new marketing plan | Develop a new business model |
As shown in the table, the choice between implement and develop depends on the context in which they are used. Understanding the context is crucial to ensure that the correct word is chosen and that the message is conveyed accurately.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using “implement” and “develop” are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where they might not apply. Here are some of those exceptions:
1. Technical Jargon
In technical jargon, “implement” and “develop” might have specific meanings that differ from their general usage. For example, in software development, “implement” often refers to the process of adding a specific feature or functionality to an existing program, while “develop” refers to the creation of an entirely new program or system.
Another example is in the field of engineering. “Develop” might refer to the initial design and planning stages of a project, while “implement” refers to the actual construction and installation of the project.
2. Contextual Usage
The context in which “implement” and “develop” are used can also affect their meanings. For instance, in the context of a business plan, “implement” might refer to the execution of a specific strategy or plan, while “develop” might refer to the creation of the plan itself.
Similarly, in the context of personal growth or self-improvement, “develop” might refer to the process of improving oneself through learning and practice, while “implement” might refer to the actual application of those skills or knowledge in real-life situations.
3. Regional Differences
Finally, it’s worth noting that regional differences can also affect the usage of “implement” and “develop”. For example, in British English, “implement” is often used more broadly than in American English, where it is often used in a more specific sense.
Similarly, in some regions, “develop” might be used more broadly to refer to any kind of progress or growth, while in others it might be used more specifically to refer to the creation of something new.
Overall, while the rules for using “implement” and “develop” are generally straightforward, it’s important to be aware of these exceptions and to use these words in a way that is appropriate to the context and audience.
Practice Exercises
Improving one’s understanding and use of the words “implement” and “develop” requires practice. Here are some exercises to help readers do just that:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
For each sentence, choose either “implement” or “develop” to fill in the blank:
- The company plans to __________ a new marketing strategy next quarter.
- The IT department will __________ the new software system by the end of the month.
- The team is working hard to __________ a solution to the problem.
- After conducting market research, the company decided to __________ a new product line.
- It took several months to __________ the new website design.
Answer Key:
- develop
- implement
- develop
- develop
- implement
Exercise 2: Identify The Correct Word
For each sentence, identify whether “implement” or “develop” is the correct word to use:
| Sentence | Correct Word |
|---|---|
| The team needs to __________ a plan of action. | develop |
| Our company will __________ a new customer service policy. | implement |
| The CEO wants to __________ a new product line. | develop |
| The project manager will __________ the new software system. | implement |
| The marketing team needs to __________ a new advertising campaign. | develop |
Explanation: “Develop” refers to the process of creating or improving something, while “implement” refers to the process of putting something into action or practice. Therefore, in sentences where a plan, policy, product, or campaign is being created, “develop” is the correct word to use. In sentences where a system or strategy is being put into action, “implement” is the correct word to use.
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between the terms “implement” and “develop,” it is clear that they have distinct meanings in the context of grammar and language use. Implement refers to the act of putting something into action or practice, while develop refers to the process of growing or evolving something over time.
It is important for writers to understand the nuances of these terms in order to use them correctly and effectively. By implementing the right language and grammar practices, writers can develop their skills and improve the quality of their writing.
Key Takeaways
- Implement and develop have different meanings in the context of language and grammar.
- Implement refers to putting something into action, while develop refers to the process of growing or evolving something over time.
- Understanding the nuances of these terms is important for effective communication and writing.
As writers, we should strive to continue learning about grammar and language use in order to improve our skills and communicate more effectively. By staying up-to-date on language trends and best practices, we can develop our writing abilities and make a greater impact with our words.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.