Development dictionary
For mortals who want to understand the language of nerds.
Backend
Definition
The backend is the part of the software that runs on the server and is responsible for processing data and application logic.
Example
The backend is like the kitchen in a restaurant – it’s where all the food is prepared, but customers don’t see it.
Meaning
Ensures proper functioning of the application and data handling.
Frontend
Definition
The frontend is the part of the software that the user directly interacts with, usually running in the browser.
Example
The frontend is like the dining area in a restaurant – it’s what customers see and interact with.
Meaning
Allows users to interact with the application.
API
Definition
An API is a set of rules and tools for building software, enabling communication between different systems.
Example
An API is like a waiter in a restaurant – it transfers orders between customers and the kitchen.
Meaning
Enables integration and communication between different software applications.
HTML
Definition
HTML is the basic markup language for creating websites and applications.
Example
HTML is like the skeleton of a building, which defines its basic structure.
Meaning
Allows creation of the structure and content of web pages.
CSS
Definition
CSS is a language for describing the appearance and formatting of documents written in HTML.
Example
CSS is like interior design, which determines how the building will look.
Meaning
Allows styling and visual design of websites.
JavaScript
Definition
JavaScript is a programming language that enables the creation of interactive elements on websites.
Example
JavaScript is like electrical devices in a house, adding functionality and interactivity.
Meaning
Enables the creation of dynamic and interactive websites.
WordPress
Definition
WordPress is an open-source CMS (Content Management System) for building websites and blogs.
Example
WordPress is like a construction kit that lets you build different types of websites without needing programming knowledge.
Meaning
Allows easy creation and management of websites.
Cloud
Definition
The cloud is a way of storing and accessing data and applications over the internet instead of on a local computer.
Example
The cloud is like online storage, where you can save data accessible from anywhere.
Meaning
Enables flexible and scalable storage of data and applications.
Framework
Definition
A framework is a platform for software development that provides a basic structure and tools.
Example
A framework is like scaffolding that makes it easier to build a building by providing structure and support.
Meaning
Speeds up and simplifies application development.
MVP
Definition
An MVP (Minimum Viable Product) is the basic version of a product that includes only the key features needed to test an idea in practice.
Example
An MVP is like setting up a lemonade stand instead of building a whole factory – you find out if people really want your product before investing in a large-scale business.
Meaning
It helps you validate an idea quickly, gather feedback, and save costs during development.
Sprint
Definition
A sprint is a short time period (usually 1–4 weeks) during which the team completes a specific set of tasks and delivers a finished result.
Example
A sprint is like when you say during house construction: “In two weeks we must have the foundation finished.” → instead of planning the entire construction at once, the work is divided into smaller, manageable parts.
Meaning
A sprint gives the team a clear rhythm. It allows them to focus on priorities, quickly deliver value to the client, and continuously improve processes.
CI/CD
Definition
CI/CD stands for Continuous Integration / Continuous Delivery. It is a process that automates testing, building, and deploying applications so that changes reach users quickly and reliably.
Example
CI/CD is like an assembly line: a developer provides a piece (code), the line automatically tests it, assembles it with the others, and the finished product rolls off the belt straight to the customer.
Meaning
Thanks to CI/CD, the team can deploy new versions quickly, without manual errors, and with confidence that nothing is broken. For the client, this means faster innovation and more reliable software.
Bank iD
Definition
Bank iD is a way to verify your identity and sign documents online using your internet banking credentials. It works like a digital ID card — secure, simple, and without the need for additional registration.
Example
Instead of creating a new account, you log in to a website via your bank — just like when you check your account balance. The system verifies your identity, and you can sign documents or conclude contracts online.
Meaning
Bank iD simplifies digital communication between individuals, businesses, and the state. It increases security, saves time, and enables fully online processes — from login to electronic signature.
Middleware
Definition
Middleware is software that sits between an application and a user, or between two systems. It helps them communicate — ensuring that data goes where it’s supposed to, safely and reliably.
Example
Think of it as an interpreter between two people who speak different languages. Middleware translates, checks, filters, and ensures that both sides understand each other — even if each “speaks” differently.
Meaning
Thanks to middleware, applications behave securely, consistently, and predictably.
DevOps
Definition
DevOps is a way of working that brings development (Dev) and operations/security (Ops) together into one team and one process. The goal is to deliver software faster, more securely, and with fewer surprises.
Example
It’s like chefs (Dev) and waitstaff (Ops) finally getting on the same page. The chef knows how the food is served, and the staff understands how the kitchen works. The result? Food reaches the table faster, hot, and without anyone yelling, “Who put this on the plate?!”
Meaning
DevOps enables faster releases, fewer errors, smoother collaboration, automation instead of manual work, and—most importantly—keeps development and operations pulling in the same direction. For clients? Better stability, lower risk, and faster innovation.
Backlog
Definition
A backlog is a list of all tasks, ideas, requests, and features that a project may address in the future. It’s a living document that is continuously updated, refined, and prioritized.
Example
You can think of a backlog as a professional to-do list. At the top are things to be done soon, in the middle items for “when there’s time,” and at the bottom ideas that may never happen (but are still nice to keep). It’s where every new idea or request ends up before deciding if and when it will be implemented.
Meaning
A backlog helps maintain product direction, manage priorities, prevent chaos in requirements, align expectations between the team and the client, and plan sprints and releases. For clients, it’s important because it shows where the project is heading and why some things are done earlier than others.
AI readiness
Definition
AI readiness is how prepared a company truly is to use artificial intelligence in practice.
Example
AI needs solid foundations: clean data, clear processes, high-quality code, security, and people who understand the context.
Meaning
AI readiness helps avoid wasted investments and deploy AI where it actually delivers value. Foundations first, tools second.
DevSecOps
Definition
DevSecOps is an approach where security isn’t handled at the end, but is built into every step—automatically and from the start.
Example
Without DevSecOps: “Done, can we deploy?”
Security: “Stop. You’ve got 50 vulnerabilities. Redo it.”
With DevSecOps: The code is tested continuously. You see issues immediately and fix them right away. No drama.
Meaning
DevSecOps turns security into a standard, not an obstacle. You save time by avoiding last-minute fire drills before deadlines. A secure application isn’t a bonus—it’s the baseline for peace of mind.
FinOps
Definition
FinOps is a way to keep cloud costs under control. It connects finance, IT, and business with the goal of avoiding wasted spending.
Example
Without FinOps: “Why are we paying 200,000 CZK for Azure when nothing new is running?“
IT: “We don’t know, we need to look into it.“
Finance: “Just reduce it!“
With FinOps: You can see exactly how much each project costs. Systems that are idle are automatically turned off. You save 30% in the very first month.
Meaning
FinOps returns responsibility for spending to the people who actually control the cloud. It’s not about paying as little as possible, but about not paying for anything that doesn’t make you money. Shift the conversation from 'how much does it cost' to 'how much value does it bring'.
Zero Trust
Definition
Zero Trust is a security model based on the principle 'never trust, always verify.' No user or device is automatically trusted just because it is inside the network.
Example
Without Zero Trust: “I'm on the company Wi-Fi, I can log in anywhere without a password.“ (A hacked laptop = an open path to accounting).
With Zero Trust: “You want access to accounting? Show your identity, confirm it on your phone, and prove your computer is up to date. Every time.“
Meaning
It minimizes damage. Even if an attacker gets one password, they cannot move further. Security is no longer about castle walls but about smart locks inside the company. Trust is nice, but in IT security, verification is cheaper.