If you are thinking about a career as a web designer or web developer, there are some things you should know about the concepts. Even though they share some similarities in terms, they have subtle differences that make them unique. This article will discuss their differences, roles, and how you can choose between them.
Web Development vs. Web Design: The Differences
The main difference between developers and designers is that developers focus primarily on technical aspects, like coding and programming. Designers are responsible for the conceptual and visual work necessary to create a solid UI and UX. In contrast to designers who emphasize appearance and usability, developers emphasize structure and functionality.
Web Designer: This graphic artist designs website layout, functionality, and visual appeal. Web designers are skilled in creative, graphic, and technical areas.
Web Developer: These developers create and maintain the core structure of a website. Web developers are responsible for converting the web design into a functioning website using PHP, HTML, JavaScript, and Python.
Other differences:
-Web designers create the look and feel of a website by creating mockups based on visuals, user experience, and interface elements. In contrast, web developers evaluate a concept’s financial and technical feasibility.
-Web developers must possess solid technical skills. While some analysis and research are required, a designer focuses more on a website’s creative and visual aspects.
-Web designers fall into three categories: UX, UI, and visual and
there are three main types of web developers: full-stack, backend, and front-end.
-Web developers use programs and tools, including framework and coding libraries, hosting control panels, code versioning, CMS, and project management software such as Jira and GitHub. Web designers commonly use design editors like Photoshop, WordPress, Elementor, prototyping tools, and wireframing tools.
Web Designer Role
Web designers handle various tasks that involve designing websites’ layouts and visuals. Their goal is to create a site that is appealing to the eye, user-friendly, and engaging for visitors. Other responsibilities include:
-Research and testing to meet the need and expectations of users and customers
-Creating conversion-generating features
-Designing website pages that translate easily across devices
-Adhere to trends, specific standards, and best practices
-Handle brand imagery, fonts, and color palettes
Web Developer Role
The main responsibility of a web developer is building and maintaining a website’s core structure. Their role requires advanced technical skills, including complex code and advanced programming skills. Simply put, developers turn designers’ ideas into live, fully functional websites. Other responsibilities include:
-Constructing the actual website from scratch
-Coding and setting up servers and databases
-Incorporating functionality and user-facing elements and features
-Perform debugging, testing, and a wide range of follow-up services, such as maintenance, support, and troubleshooting.
Career: Website Development Companies
Regardless of where you live, plenty of companies develop websites, and many people feel overwhelmed. But, as more and more companies move online, there is no better time to start your career in web development. Now you know how web designers and web developers differ, and their roles in designing, constructing, and maintaining websites. You can choose your desired concept and research the best web development companies here.