So, what does a web developer do? A web developer designs and maintains websites and web applications for the World Wide Web or distributive networks. Website developers work on a website’s front-end, i.e., design and user interface, or back-end, i.e., software, database, and coding. Many developers also work on both interfaces and services and are known as Full Stack Developers.
Since web developers work to create the basic details and core functionalities of a website, they typically have an in-depth knowledge of programming languages like Python, Java, Ruby, PHP, JavaScript, and so on. They are also proficient in many software programs and web applications.
To become a web developer, your primary objective should always be to create stable and effective web services and applications. So, if you are planning a career in web development, this article will give you all the information you need to know about what web developers do and how to become one.
Types of Web Developers
Web development means working on different aspects of a website or web application. Based on your interest, you can either choose to work with languages that are rendered in the web browser or you can work on creating codes that enable the transmission of database information to the browser.
You can also choose to work on both and handle all the work of servers, databases, systems architecture, and clients. There are three types of web developers. They are:
- Front-End Developers – A front-end developer works on creating codes that render the design of a website properly to the user. Front-end developers write codes that make a website interactive, functional, and visually pleasing to the user.
- Back-End Developers – A back-end developer works on building and maintaining the technology that runs in the background and enables the smooth running of the website and delivering information from the database into the browser. Back-end developers add functionality and utility to what the front-end developers create.
- Full Stack Developers – A full-stack developer is adept with all the aspects of web development. They can work on creating both the client-side and the server-side codes. Full-stack developers have the expertise to handle front-end, back-end, and other database aspects needed for developing a website.
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What Does a Web Developer Do: Role And Responsibilities
Based on which aspect of the web development you are working on, the primary roles and responsibilities are as follows:
- Front-end or Client-side Web Development – The primary responsibilities of a front-end developer are:
- Developing new features for user experience
- Checking the technical and practical aspects of the UI/UX designs
- Building codes and libraries for future use
- Storing user data in browser cookies
- Validating all user input before back-end submission
- Creating personalized content consisting of a user’s information
- Optimizing the web service or application for improved functionality and speed
- Creating interactive tools and resources for the web page
- Back-end or Server-side Web Development – Back-end developers are responsible for the following aspects:
- Integrating user interface elements with server-side logic
- Administering security and data protection
- Creating and applying data storage solutions
- Solving problems by gathering and analyzing all data and codes
- Following industry trends and developments and creating new programs, features, or products accordingly
- Recording and delivering data to the clients
Web Developer Skills & Qualifications
To become a web developer, you must have a knack for both hard as well as soft technical skills. The web development industry is all about clients and projects. Hence, you have to utilize your creativity along with technical knowledge.
A competent website developer must have the following skills to excel in this field:
- In-depth knowledge of technologies like HTML, JavaScript, Java, PHP, Java, SQL, jQuery, etc.
- Excellent ability to identify and solve issues, errors, or bugs within the code
- Adept in troubleshooting and logical analysis
- Outstanding knowledge of the latest technologies and industry trends
- Remarkable multitasking ability and flexibility to work on several projects at a time.
- Exceptional capability to meet goals and deadlines
- Brilliant communication skills and ability to work in and with a team.
Although no specific educational qualification is needed to become a web developer, in-depth technical knowledge is always a plus for those who want to become a web developer.
Since knowledge and experience are the primary requirements for this job, a relevant degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Web Design and Development, and Informatics will most definitely put you ahead in the race.
Nowadays most developers possess an extensive knowledge of various programming languages which they gain either through a degree in Computer Science or out of interest and work experience. However, you can also opt for certification programs that will help you demonstrate your knowledge and professional abilities.
Web Developer Job Opportunities
With the increasing demand for the latest technologies and the popularity of social networks, websites are now considered vital to running a profitable business.
Since companies cannot provide their consumers with a personalized experience by only using a generic online template, demand for web developers will steadily increase in the future.
As per the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, job offers for a web developer commonly come from the following industries:
- Information Services
- Scientific and Technical Consulting
- Computer System Design
- PR and Advertising
- Data Processing and Hosting
Although most website developers work for a corporation, you can also choose to become a freelancer or work for an agency. Your choice of employment depends on your lifestyle and has no possible effect on your career growth.
While corporations offer payrolls with benefits, they do have their company policies which you must follow. On the other, freelancing does not have such set schedules, but you do have to meet the expectations of the clients and deliver with the deadline to maintain a steady client list and new projects. Therefore, whichever path you opt for, do not forget to tally all the pros and cons before making a final decision.
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So, What Does a Web Developer Do?
Web development offers a great prospect for career growth. Nowadays, if you examine the job trends in the IT industry, you will find web development at the top of the list. As the market continues to grow, the demand for qualified web developers is always on the rise.
Moreover, the possibility of a decline in its demand shortly is zero. Since you now know everything about what a web developer does, set your goals and start working today to achieve them.
