Web Technologies
Website design is a relatively new occupation, involving the construction and maintenance of an internet home page. Working on computers with specialized software programs, designers are responsible for the overall arrangement and creation of the internet presentation, which usually includes links to other web pages, graphics, text, and lettering placed according to conceptual layouts and technical specifications. They prepare designs, sketches, illustrations, layouts and visual images to communicate information clearly, precisely and persuasively for their clients. It is crucial that they are able to meet the goals of their client while keeping the website visually appealing, informative and accessible. They also must be aware of the copyright, authorship and ethical issues related to this rapidly expanding phenomenon.
Traits and Talents
As the technology is continually improving, evolving and changing, designers must be capable of learning and quickly adapting to new products, equipment and computer software in order to win new clients
Education and Training
- A bachelor’s degree, usually in computer science, communications or business or Completion of a college program in computer science, graphic arts, Web design or business is required.
- Experience as a computer programmer or graphic designer is usually required.
The Workplace
Web designers and developers perform some or all of the following duties:
- Consult with clients to develop and document Web site requirements
- Prepare mock-ups and storyboards
- Develop Web site architecture and determine hardware and software requirements
- Source, select and organize information for inclusion and design the appearance, layout and flow of the Web site
- Create and optimize content for the Web site using a variety of graphics, database, animation and other software
- Plan, design, write, modify, integrate and test Web-site related code
- Conduct tests and perform security and quality controls
- May lead and co-ordinate multidisciplinary teams to develop Web site graphics, content, capacity and interactivity
- May research and evaluate a variety of interactive media software products
Skills for Success
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The key Skills for Success for this career path are:
- Digital
- Adaptability
- Communication
Sample Job Titles
- Publishing art director
- Multimedia technician
- Web site developer
- Webmaster
Companies and Sectors
- Self-employed
- Internet design firms
- Large corporations