The question of today requires a little more nuance, but it would be difficult to find a web designer who knows at least a little HTML and CSS. You don’t have to look much further than a front-end web developer whipping up a storyboard.
Let’s explore the general concepts of web design and web development and the roles they play in building the websites and apps we all know and love. When we talk about these concepts, the distinction between a web designer and developer is somewhat less clear.
Roles in Web Design
Web application and website design involve UX designers and visual designers using their skills to create wireframes, mockups, design systems, color palettes, templates, and more to help developers build products.
Responsibilities of a Web Designer
A web designer ensures that the website is aesthetically pleasing and easy to read, making it easy for users to find what they are looking for. They focus on styling the entire page using software such as Photoshop to customize visual elements. The main responsibility of the web designer is to use various software (Photoshop, Corel, and Draw) to make the website attractive.
Tools Used by Web Designers
Web designers use graphic design software tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketch, and Dreamweaver to create the layout of a site to improve user experience.
Roles in Web Development
Web development is the process of programming web pages using programming languages such as CSS, HTML, JavaScript, Python, Ruby on Rails, and more. While web design deals with what the user sees on their computer or mobile device, web development is governed by the code that makes the web page function.
Responsibilities of a Web Developer
A web developer is responsible for creating a visually attractive website with user-friendly design features, clear navigation, and a smooth user experience. They transform the design into a live website, ensuring it works seamlessly across different devices and platforms.
Tools Used by Web Developers
Web developers must have extensive programming skills in software languages such as structured query languages (SQL), Python, Java, server development, machine learning, and development of APIs. They also use server architecture tools and agile system analysis.
Collaboration Between Web Designer and Developer
Job titles such as web designers and web developers may sound redundant to those unfamiliar with them. However, most of the time designers do graphic design and web programming. A web designer and developer must work closely to bring websites to life, with responsibilities, training, and skills varying widely.
Creating a Functional Website
By using one of the frontend programming languages, a frontend web developer can turn a mockup or wireframe provided by a web designer into a functioning website with clickable and scrollable elements, navigation, content, and styling that correspond to brand guidelines.
Project Management
A website company often has a project manager who can manage the project and ensure that developers and designers are on the same page, facilitating effective communication and project execution.
Choosing Between a Web Designer and Developer
If you want to create a mobile app, fix a server or hosting problem, integrate an app, or create a contact form, you need a web developer. If you need visuals for your website, including branding, style, layout, information flow, and user interface, you should consider hiring a web designer.
Conclusion
Web developers and designers have a symbiotic relationship and work together to create amazing products, much like the symbiosis seen in nature. A developer creates the core structure of websites using programming languages, while a designer brings a brand idea to the screen, making it visually appealing to the audience.
Pursuing a Career
For those interested in pursuing a career as a web designer or developer, a degree in software development can provide a solid foundation. It’s important to recognize that while some aspects of the roles overlap, the two jobs are fundamentally different in their day-to-day tasks and required skills.
In summary, understanding the difference between a web designer and developer is crucial for anyone looking to build or improve a website. Both roles are essential, and their collaboration is key to creating effective and engaging digital experiences.
