Diary Thesis on Full-Stack Software Development in a Music Platform Start-up
Tran, Anh (2026)
2026
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202603134288
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-202603134288
Tiivistelmä
This thesis is presented as an eight-week work journal documenting the author’s daily responsibilities and professional development as a Full-Time Software Development Intern at Venue-Lab Oy. The research context is a remote startup environment focused on the digital transformation of the performing arts market through a music-centric platform. The main objective of the thesis is to reflect on the transition from academic training to software engineering practice, examining how theoretical frameworks support practical tasks, and assessing the intern’s growth in technical expertise, professional responsibility, sustainable engineering practices and strategic thinking. The research is limited to the specific role of developing core features for a web application, including a payment system, user interface improvements, and backend integration.
A structured journaling method was employed to record daily observations and weekly analyses in key areas of full-stack development. Key implementation tasks were undertaken throughout the eight weeks, such as integrating a complex payment system using Stripe, designing and building a responsive user interface with Next.js and React, and managing backend logic via Supabase and Edge Functions. Simultaneously, the intern participated in the entire software development lifecycle, from Proof of Concept (PoC) through Prototype to Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Agile methodologies, specifically Kanban, were used to manage the workflow, while “Clean Code” principles and security standards guided technical execution. Furthermore, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) gartools for feature development and productivity enhancement was explored and documented.
The thesis results demonstrate a significant evolution in the author’s professional competence, through a transformation from a novice programmer to a capable practitioner with a technical consultant mindset. The author also discusses how academic theories related to Agile project management, software architecture, and user-centric design were successfully applied and adapted to the constraints of the startup company. The journaling approach fostered deep self-reflection, revealing that purely technical skills were insufficient; soft skills such as proactive communication, emotional control, and adaptability were equally important. The internship provided a comprehensive foundation for the author’s future career, highlighting the importance of balancing technical rigor and business acumen in the dynamic field of software engineering.
A structured journaling method was employed to record daily observations and weekly analyses in key areas of full-stack development. Key implementation tasks were undertaken throughout the eight weeks, such as integrating a complex payment system using Stripe, designing and building a responsive user interface with Next.js and React, and managing backend logic via Supabase and Edge Functions. Simultaneously, the intern participated in the entire software development lifecycle, from Proof of Concept (PoC) through Prototype to Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Agile methodologies, specifically Kanban, were used to manage the workflow, while “Clean Code” principles and security standards guided technical execution. Furthermore, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) gartools for feature development and productivity enhancement was explored and documented.
The thesis results demonstrate a significant evolution in the author’s professional competence, through a transformation from a novice programmer to a capable practitioner with a technical consultant mindset. The author also discusses how academic theories related to Agile project management, software architecture, and user-centric design were successfully applied and adapted to the constraints of the startup company. The journaling approach fostered deep self-reflection, revealing that purely technical skills were insufficient; soft skills such as proactive communication, emotional control, and adaptability were equally important. The internship provided a comprehensive foundation for the author’s future career, highlighting the importance of balancing technical rigor and business acumen in the dynamic field of software engineering.