Web Designer/Developer

Web designers/developers are responsible for the design, layout and coding of a website. They are involved with the technical and graphic aspects of a website, how the site works and how it looks. They can also be involved with the maintenance and updating of an existing site.

Their role is a combination of computing expertise, including ensuring the site loads correctly and that all its functions work properly, and creativity. Websites commonly integrate user actions, graphics, multimedia and design features.

They work closely with the client or business function responsible for the website. A business may rely on its site to sell products and services, to provide information or to get viewers to respond, so the job of the web designer/developer involves making the site as attractive, clear and easy to use as possible.

The stages in designing a website are:

• identifying the purpose of the website and its target audience
• identifying what type of content should be included
• deciding on what functions the site needs to offer which may include contact forms, payment handling, shopping baskets, forums or message boards, for example
• working out the structure of the site and which pages will link to each other
• deciding on layout, colours, typography and styles
• ensuring that the website conforms to technical and user standards.

The web designer/developer will:

• gather the content elements which may include text, images, logos, video, sound and animation
• lay out the web pages, placing elements to fit the design that has been agreed
• test the website interaction and identify any technical problems
• test the website performance on different search engines and platforms
• upload the site onto a server and register it with search engines.

Creating the pages and the functions for the website involves developing programming code, either by writing it from scratch or using website design and graphics software.

Designers/developers have to ensure that the sites they work on are easily accessible via different platforms (PCs, Macs, mobile phones, digital TV and other digital devices). They also need to consider the needs of people with visual and other impairments.

A web designer/developer often works as part of a team, which may include a web writer/editor and an account manager. They may advise clients on ways of using the web to meet their business needs and will often be asked to suggest the latest functions and tools that could be used to increase a site’s attractiveness and effectiveness.

Hours and environment

A web designer/developer normally works between 37 and 40 hours a week, 9.00am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. Additional hours may be required to meet deadlines, which could include evenings and weekends.

Many designers/developers are self-employed and may work from home. Part-time and flexible hours may be available.

It is usual to work in an open plan office. Some travelling may be required if designers/developers need to meet clients.

Salary and other benefits

These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.

• Starting salaries may be around €35,000 a year.
• With experience, web designers/developers may earn about €45,000.
• Salaries for senior designers/developers may be €65,000 or more.

Skills and personal qualities

A web designer/developer should:

• have skills in website coding and graphics software packages
• have creativity and imagination
• be adaptable and able to pick up new techniques
• be able to work on their own or in a team
• be able to work with clients and other people involved in the project or business
• be able to communicate their ideas clearly
• be able to work to tight deadlines
• be thorough and precise in their work
• be able to handle a number of tasks at the same time.

Interests

It is important to be interested in:

• keeping up to date with web technology and design trends
• the internet and the possibilities it offers businesses.

Getting in

Web designers/developers are employed across all industry sectors from finance and retail to public organisations. They may be employed by design and marketing agencies, IT consultancies and software houses or work in an organisation’s own marketing or IT department.

Useful Links:

The Irish Computer Society