Web development is basically the technical work involved in creating a Web page for the Internet or some kind of intranet. Web developers do this work by designing and building the “rooms” on the Internet – often, the pages are “sockets” that connect a local server and the World Wide Web. Web development can range widely from writing a simple single-page static file of plain text up to highly complex web-oriented programs, electronic books, and social networking services. Basically, it involves creating and organizing information on the Web using the latest technologies.
Generally, web development is an all-encompassing term that encompasses many tasks and skills. However, web developers have broad job descriptions that usually consist of the following areas: graphic design and web layout, content creation and management, client interaction and usability, web server implementation and configuration, integrated development, web-basedbased browser technologies, client-application programming interfaces, web-browser testing, maintenance and configuration of Web servers and scripts, documentation and user-interface design, search engine marketing, web server usage and management, networking and community development. Some web developers may specialize in one or more of these areas. It is also possible for a Web developer to combine some of these skills. The best way to become a web developer is to gain hands-on experience under a qualified professional.
Most experienced web developers begin with some form of a degree in computer science, specifically with an emphasis on programming. Many computer science departments at colleges and universities will offer courses in web development. A computer science major specializing in web development will be required to take general computer programming classes as well. Those pursuing a career in web development will have to take specialized classes focusing on this subject matter.
In addition to the courses in computer science, most web development schools require students to complete courses in business, math, art, and psychology. Art is included because it broadens the creative mind. Psychology courses help the student cope with clients and customers. Most web developers typically work with a limited number of clients. The work environment varies depending on the client, but it typically consists of a handful of employees.
The primary area of web development work is usually the creation and management of websites through either HTML or JavaScript code. A front-end developer can also do basic programming in a program such as PHP or ColdFusion. A back-end developer does the code that actually creates the pages, images, and other content within the website. Typically, a front-end developer has a few years of programming experience while a back-end developer may have much less experience, although the positions are often cross-trained. Web developers typically work in the areas of database development, shopping cart integration and graphic design.
Most web development work is done on a contract basis, which means that the developer or his firm submit a specific number of project works and agrees to a certain price for these services. These contracts are usually specific to each client, but they will generally be similar. These contracts often stipulate the amount of the programming language used, the size of the project, which web browsers the service will use and more. Some web developers also work on a freelance basis. In this case they are paid on a per-contract basis, which means that they receive a percentage of the money made by the company, but they are not tied down with a long-term contract like the full-service type of developer.
When hiring a web developer or an open classroom, you should be aware of any licensing restrictions. In some cases, a developer may be restricted to particular languages or platforms, so you should find out what restrictions are in place before beginning work. You should also find out if there are any hidden fees or charges, such as technical support, setup fees, upgrade fees, per-use fees, and others.
With many of today’s web developers using pre-existing coding systems, your website should begin production smoothly. However, the coding system used during web development needs to be tightly integrated with your site’s design. This means that your Web Design team must work very closely with the designer to ensure that all the various aspects of your site are smoothly integrated. A well-designed website will make it easier for your customers to find their way around and increase the efficiency with which customers can make purchases. For this reason and many others, it is essential that web developers are properly trained and that they follow a strict code of conduct.