Infographics

Does Your Project Need a Web Designer or Web Developer? [INFOGRAPHIC]

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When it comes to building new websites or updating existing sites, most people don’t know the types of professionals they should hire to get the job done right.

You don’t need to run the risk of hiring the wrong person; you just need to know how to compare your Web needs with the services that professionals can offer. Generally, Web professionals fall into one of three categories: back-end developers, front-end developers, and Web designers.

Three categories of Web professionals

Back-end developers are essentially computer programmers who focus on creating Web applications. They can create content management systems, security features, and data management tools.

Having a good back-end developer gives website owners the security and flexibility they need to keep their sites running, gather information about users, and give users access to specific profiles.

Front-end developers are more experienced with creating tools that will enhance the user’s experience. If you have a design concept that needs to  function on multiple browsers and computers, then you want to hire a front-end developer.

Consistency is key here, and the site design should be scalable enough to address all types of users. This means that no matter if the user is on a desktop or is accessing the site remotely via a tablet with a mobile or satellite Internet connection, the general experience should remain the same.

Web designers don’t usually have as much experience with computer programming. They might know the basics of HTML, CSS, and other common tools, but they aren’t the people you want to rely on when you need someone to build a website.

They are, however, the people you need to create professional graphics that will appeal to your site’s visitors. Web designers might also create an overall concept that tells the developers where to build navigational features.

A team approach. More often than not, companies need to hire Web teams that can work together to create sites. A reliable Web team will have at least one developer and designer. The best ones often have multiple developers and designers who can work together to make a website that matches the client’s unique concerns.

Now, if you’re still stuck for selecting the right professional, you’re in the right place…

Web designer or Web developer?

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Teddy Hunt is a freelance content writer with a focus on technology. When not behind a computer, Teddy spends the majority of his free time outdoors and resides in Tampa, Florida. Follow him on Twitter

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