Web Developers

First things first :

 What is web development?

Web programming, also known as web development, is the creation of dynamic web applications. Examples of web applications are social networking sites like Facebook or e-commerce sites like Amazon. ... But it's also a good choice if you just want a general introduction to coding since it's super easy to get started.

Web development is the work involved in developing a Web site for the Internet (World Wide Web) or an intranet (a private network). Web development can range from developing a simple single static page of plain text to complex web applications, electronic businesses, and social network services. A more comprehensive list of tasks to which Web development commonly refers may include Web engineering, Web design, Web content development, client liaison, client-side/server-side scripting, Web server and network security configuration, and e-commerce development.

For larger organizations and businesses, Web development teams can consist of hundreds of people (Web developers) and follow standard methods like Agile methodologies while developing Web sites. Smaller organizations may only require a single permanent or contracting developer, or secondary assignment to related job positions such as a graphic designer or information systems technician. Web development may be a collaborative effort between departments rather than the domain of a designated department. There are three kinds of Web developer specialization: front-end developer, back-end developer, and full-stack developer. Front-end developers are responsible for behavior and visuals that run in the user browser, while back-end developers deal with the servers.

Web Developer Duties & Responsibilities

This job generally requires the ability to do the following work:



• Know HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, and other relevant web design coding languages
• Create and test applications for websites
• Collaborate
• Present design specs
• Work with graphics and other designers
• Troubleshoot website problems
• Maintain and update websites
• Monitor website traffic
• Stay up-to-date on technology

Web developers build and shape visitors’ experiences at websites.

They do this through the creation of page layouts (headings and paragraphs), website styling (colors and fonts), and page features (animations and pictures). Interactive features, such as submitting online payments securely, are a necessary feature of e-commerce sites.

Web developers work closely with project managers and designers to ensure that final products adhere to predetermined budgets, scope, and designs. Web developers sometimes need to be able to show employers or clients a prototype of a website to help them understand what the finished product will be.

Website maintenance also is an important element of the job. As new features need to be added or old features need to be updated, web developers need to make sure these changes are implemented smoothly and that they do not disrupt the website’s features.

Education, Training, & Certification

In some settings, web developers can get started with no more than a high school diploma, but an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree typically is needed to advance in the field.

• Education: Many high school classes cover the basics of web design and graphic design necessary to the field, and some web developers are self-taught. Many employers still will seek candidates with associate’s degrees in web design or something similar. Some more detail-oriented positions will require at least a bachelor’s degree in computer programming, computer science, or something similar.
• Certification: Certifications are not necessary, but job candidates can make themselves more marketable by earning certifications in areas such as JavaScript or SQL through online courses.

Web Developer Skills & Competencies

In addition to the technical skills necessary for the job, there are several soft skills that can be very beneficial to anyone looking for a career as a web developer:4

• Detail-oriented: One line of code can have a significant impact on a website’s functionality or appearance, and web developers need to be sure they aren’t missing key details. When troubleshooting, they need to be able to know where to look for the problem.

• Multitasking: Projects aren’t always handled one at a time, and one client’s emergency sometimes can push another project to the backburner. Web developers need to be able to juggle multiple projects without missing deadlines.
• Self-motivated: The work can be solitary at times. Web developers need to be able to stay on task without anyone standing over them.

• Problem-solving: Websites need to be functional as well as attractive, and client's needs in these regards might not always be easy to meet. Web developers need to figure out how to translate a client’s vision to an actual, functional website.

• Good under pressure: Tight deadlines are common when designing or updating websites. Developers need to be able to handle the pressure of having work done when needed.

Job Outlook

Job opportunities for web developers are expected to expand by about 13% or the decade ending in 2028, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is more than twice the 5% rate projected for all occupations. Growth is attributed to the increasing popularity of e-commerce and mobile applications for multiple tasks.

Work Environment

Web developers work for a variety of employers in the government, nonprofit, and corporate sectors. However, many also work independently on a contract basis or for web development firms.

The majority of the work is on a computer, so it’s important to be comfortable sitting at a desk for long stretches of time. Not all work is in front of the computer, however.