With millions of websites already online and new ones being created every day, the field of web design seems like it could be a great career choice.
While there is certainly room for growth in this industry, it is important to learn as much as you can about web design before you make a decision.
This way, you can be sure that you know what you are getting into.
Basic Skills
Web design is not so much a matter of writing code as it is of creating the look and feel of a website. Designers are concerned with such matters as the layout of the pages on the site, the color scheme that is used and even the appearance of icons. Because of this, a background in graphic design or art can be beneficial.
However, it is also important for web designers to have a good understanding of the technical issues that underpin a website. For example, a skilled designer should understand how to use HTML, JavaScript or PHP. In addition, being able to use graphics software such as Adobe Photoshop can be very helpful.
Education
While there are few formal degrees granted in the field of web design, there are quite a few courses that are offered about the subject.
Technical colleges frequently offer courses about web design which can be completed to earn a certificate. In addition, four-year colleges and universities may offer such classes through their computer science departments.
In most cases, however, web design is a skill that is learned on the job, rather than in a classroom. Most designers master the craft through a hands-on approach. The best way to learn these skills is generally by sitting down at a computer and trying to design a website that is appealing and easy to use.
Getting Started In Web Design
As such, it is usually easier to get a job as a designer once you have worked on several websites in the past. Just having a certificate or completing a course is not going to be enough.
Employers want to see that you are able to create attractive, functional websites and the best way to demonstrate this is by pointing to examples of your past work.
At first, you may have to seek out clients as a freelance designer. Local groups, such as nonprofit organizations or small businesses, may be in the market for affordable design services.
By working with these entities, you can develop a portfolio of your work that you can then use to apply for more lucrative positions.
The Role Of Web Design In An Organization
Because visiting a website is often the first interaction that someone has with an organization, the web designer’s work plays a major role in determining the organization’s long-term success.
A well-designed site will attract more customers, while a poorly-designed one will drive people away. Web designers need to be able to work well with other departments, including IT, sales and even HR.
A web designer has to be able to translate the needs of other departments into a concrete form. They also have to pay attention to clients and customers to figure out which factors are most important in determining how usable a website will be.
In addition, they need to stay up to date on the latest technologies and changes in the online world to ensure that a website is usable by as many people as possible. For example, optimizing sites for mobile devices is increasingly important.
Web design is an exciting field and opportunities for savvy designers are increasingly available.
If you have good technical and artistic skills and are able to work well with a wide variety of people, this could be an excellent career choice for you.
