Whether you're a programmer with graphic skills or a graphic artist with programming skills, the subtle differences between a web designer and a web developer can be confusing to employers and applicants alike. It’s important to recognize the distinction when filling a position or finding work because even though some people posses a crossover skill set, their strengths need to meet the company’s greater need for a good fit.
The over-simplified explanation is that web designers make a site look good and web developers make it work well. Designers are typically in charge of layout and user interface while developers are responsible for running the back-end. Much like an interior decorator, the web designer arranges the space plan, picks the colors and furniture, fixtures or fonts. On the other hand, the web developer is like the contractor who applies the paint, constructs the built-ins and makes the lights come on.
There is a big difference in supply, demand and pay scale between web developers and web designers. Because the internet offers a multitude of template options, and users are growing savvy in their computer skills, the openings for professional web designers is on the decline. However opportunities for developers are increasing in order to crank out the automated services that allow users to take a DIY approach with their web sites. Statistically speaking, there are approximately 200,870 graphic design jobs with a median salary of $47,820 in the U.S. while there are about 1,336,300 programming positions bringing in an average salary of $85,430 a year.
Developers and designers who want to advance their careers and stand out amongst other candidates should expand their experience in each other’s fields. Even if it’s not Photoshop, developers should familiarize themselves with some sort of design software and principles like contrast, alignment and proximity. Designers should understand the basics of HTML and coding, or at the very least, learn naming conventions for file saving. Online tutorials and classes make it easy to pick up additional skills on the go. The more an applicant has to offer an employer, the more likely their resume will advance to the top of the pile to be called back for an interview.
The important thing is that the needs of the employer fit with the skills of the employee. Companies in search of social media content or identity branding are looking for designers where as the ones that are looking to offer their clients online services, storage or applications are searching for developers. If the look and the function are already established and they just need someone to keep the wheels turning, then that’s a web master. But that’s a different article altogether.
Image courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos
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