Software engineering is the process of developing quality software through techniques, tools, and methods. It involves analyzing requirements, designing systems, writing code, testing, and maintaining software to meet the needs of customers and evolve over time. The goal is to produce reliable software products that efficiently perform the desired functions while being usable, maintainable, and dependable. Developing software involves roles like analysts, designers, programmers, testers, and trainers collaborating through steps such as requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing, delivery, and maintenance.