The evolution from coding to engineered software is reviewed, The most rapidly growing area today is real-time and embedded applications. Here software is the glue holding the pieces together but the pieces are often electro-mechanical devices. This calls for the tight cooperation of engineers of virtually all disciplines.

Large and networked application systems cannot be designed and installed without domain knowledge that is often beyond engineering expertise. And in the case of small companies general business background is needed. Finally, suggestions are presented to align education with the above requirements.