Web Design vs. Web Development: What’s the Difference?
Do you want to become a web designer or a web developer?
It’s a big question website beginners ask themselves because you aren’t sure which direction to specialize.
When I decided to start freelancing, I bought business cards and didn’t know which title to assign myself.
Let’s consider the requirements and how websites operate.
In the simplest form, viewing a site is an interaction between:
Browser Web Server
The browser renders HTML and runs Javascript code. The web server stores HTML & Javascript code.
The big difference is web servers allow you to set up databases and execute “scripting” programming languages like PHP, which is how WordPress works.
Many web apps use Javascript to send data back-and-forth to the web server in real-time without refreshing the page.
Web Designer
Creates website layout in the browserMust know HTML/CSS, WordPress or another website builder platformMust know basic image editingMust understand mobile-first design & testingMay handle content creation or SEOIn-depth code knowledge is a plus, but not essential
Web Developer
Must know code language (PHP, Python, Ruby, MySQL)Implements custom functionalityTakes existing code and builds on itSimplifies existing codeDocuments existing code for easier managementDesign knowledge is a plus, but not essential
Does Your Title Matter?
When it comes to freelancing, it doesn’t. Your main title is business owner, and you solve individual problems from scratch. Most solutions come in unique ways – code, software, outsourcing, etc.
It’s an entirely different story if your goal is to get a job at a mid-to-large company that already has systems in place. In that case, the requirements of your knowledge will be a bit more stringent.
I recommend starting your own business. Your limitation isn’t your skillset; it’s your creativity.
Do you want tools, training, & advice to guide you along the process of working for yourself?
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