Web Designer

Become A Web Designer

Do you often notice details on websites that could use improving? If you like to stay up to speed on the latest computer technologies, have a knack for visual design and crave the challenge of organizing information in user-friendly ways, then a career in web design just might be for you.

Web Design in a Nutshell

Web designers are skilled technological workers who construct interactive websites, web pages and logos for the World Wide Web. Unlike web developers, who typically focus on the technologies that support the "back end" of websites - such as database integration, e-commerce, searching and other functions - web designers focus on the visual experience of a website, elements such as content positioning, interface usability and appearance. Depending on the demands of a given project, a web designer's skills might encompass other disciplines, such as graphic design, animation and even some web development.

To build a successful product, web designers use traditional graphic design applications, as well as tools such as Adobe Flash and Adobe Dreamweaver, to build animations and web pages. Meanwhile, proficiency in markup languages such as HTML, XHTML and CSS is required. Some interactive projects may demand knowledge of JavaScript, as well.

Education Requirements for Web Designers

Web designers often come to the profession with a background in related fields, such as computer science, graphic design and animation. What's more, educational requirements may vary from employer to employer, but as a general rule, most seek candidates who have earned their bachelor's or associate's degree in established web design programs. Most colleges, community colleges and vocational schools offer web design training programs that immerse students in many aspects of the profession.

It is important to keep in mind, though, that in this dynamic, fast-moving field, a formal education is just the beginning. Many web designers are self-taught and they develop their skills in response to new or emerging technologies. That's why employers generally hire candidates based on their specific skill set, in addition to their education. As in any design field, a strong portfolio of past work is a big part of landing a job, too.

Day in the Life of a Web Designer

Many employers understand that creative types often demand a certain level of freedom when on the job. The office of the web designer is often informal, with a relaxed, yet hard-working atmosphere. Web designers may work in an office environment with a team of other web designers, web developers and graphic designers, or they may telecommute from home or even a coffee shop.

Many web designers work on a freelance basis, as well, often after establishing themselves at a larger design agency.

Job Growth for Web Designers

Computer systems design and related services, including web design, are projected to be some of the fastest growing industries in the economy over the next decade. Because of this, employment for web designers is expected to grow much faster than the national average for all occupations through the year 2014.

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