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What is the difference between a Web
Designer and a Web Developer?
A Web Designer is one that specializes in Web Page Layouts and
often might use clip-art graphics. They may or may not be very artistic
when it comes to creating artwork that will be displayed on the page, but
they are able to create fully functional and attractive Websites that
stand out.
Many people can use the various tools available (with varying degrees of
proficiency) to create a Website, however, this alone does not make them a
Web Designer nor a Developer.
A Web Developer is skilled in programming languages such as those
used with backend/server-side databases, computer software, and Websites
that can interact with visitors.
There are also those that have skills in both areas. The best thing to do
first is to figure out exactly what you will need on your Website and also
what your Website might require from you.
Ask yourself the following questions:
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Do I want my site to
be simple or complex; what features would I like on my Website?
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What am I willing to
spend on the project and what would it cost for what I need?
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Do I want to
update/maintain the site myself or would I rather the designer/developer
do this?
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Will I need more than
one type of designer (Web, Graphic, Illustrations, Sound, etc...)?
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What skills am I
looking for in a designer (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, Flash...)?
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Am I willing to use
free tools to create guest books, message boards, and data collection
forms or would it be preferable to have these things made from scratch?
(Free tools often require a link back to the provider, pop-up ads, or a
type of banner on your page)
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Do I want my site submitted
to search engines or will I use other methods of advertisement?
These are just a few things that should be
kept in mind before you decide to have a Website made and as you move
forward with the project. If you ask yourself these questions and others,
it will help you clearly define your specifications. |
