Technology Acronyms

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Sometimes technical terminology can be bewildering. It’s like a different language… in fact, in some cases, it is! So, here’s some of the abbreviations you’ll most likely hear, to help get you up to “code”:

53. API: Application programming interface. This is a set of definitions, protocols and tools for building application software.

54. HTML: Hypertext Markup Language. This refers to the standardized system used for tagging text files to define page format, font, color, graphic, and hyperlink effects.

55. XML: eXtensible Markup Language. XML is a markup language too but, unlike HTML, it is designed to store and transport information. XML-based formats have become the default for many office productivity tools, including Microsoft Office and Apple iWork. It is also often used for the interchange of data over the internet.

56. HTTP: Hypertext Transfer Protocol, the foundation of data communication for the World Wide Web. It’s essentially a set of rules for transferring files. So, the next time you open a web page, remember that you are indirectly using HTTP – in fact, if you’re reading this blog, you’re using it right now!

57. IP: Internet protocol.

58. OS: Operating system.

59. UI: User interface.

60. UX: User experience design (also known as UXD, UED or XD).

61. VPN: Virtual Private Network.

62. IaaS: Infrastructure as a service. This is where hardware is provided by an external provider and managed for you.

63. SaaS: Software as a service. You may use this if you license software on a subscription, but it is managed by an external provider.

64. PaaS: Platform as a service. A platform is provided by a third-party vendor that allows customers to develop, run and manage applications without them having to build and maintain the platform infrastructure themselves.

65. WYSIWYG (pronounced “wiz-ee-wig”): What you see is what you get. This term is often used in tech circles to describe a program that allows a developer to see what the end result will look like while the interface or document is being developed.

66. SDLC: Systems development life cycle. This acronym is used to describe the planning, creating, testing, and deployment process of an information system.

67. AI: Artificial intelligence.

68. KPI: Key performance indicator.

69. RPA: Robotic process automation. We should all be aware of this term if current predictions are correct and we’re set to be replaced by robots! RPA is the type of software that mimics repetitive, routine tasks, but much more quickly, accurately and tirelessly than a human (so watch out!).