Website design encompasses a number of disciplines and skills in the creation and maintenance of online sites. The various disciplines of website design include website development; web application development; user interface design; web site authoring; search engine optimisation and proprietary applications; creative designing; and user experience design.
Website design is a complex and multifaceted field of the internet marketing and advertising industry. It includes all aspects of developing, implementing, maintaining and expanding the web presence of a company or organisation, and involves a large number of professionals involved in different disciplines. Designers and developers combine the expertise of the web programmers and website designers with the experience of marketing professionals to create a site that is easy to navigate and attractive, as well as to increase the company’s website traffic and sales. It takes many years to learn the ins and outs of website design, however it is possible to gain the skills you need in an online environment through training and mentoring. Training and mentoring can be provided through professional organisations such as Graphic Design International and the Institute of Interactive Technology, both of which offer web design education and training.
Website design requires a range of skills and knowledge, such as knowledge of computer programming languages, HTML (hypertext markup language), image editing software, and graphic design software. A number of other specialist software tools may be required to help create a successful site, including shopping cart software. Website designers can also work with designers and developers to create a website, such as using visual design and development tools.
Website designers may be involved in building websites for clients who wish to promote their product or service online. Alternatively, a website designer may work on a freelance basis, creating websites for companies looking to attract new customers. A website designer may also work with website developers to create customisable websites to meet a client’s individual requirements. The ability to use the latest software programs and tools in website development is essential to success in this line of work.
A degree in website design is normally the first step towards becoming a professional website designer. At university, you will be able to gain practical experience in the field by undertaking work in your chosen discipline, or you may choose to go on to study a related course, such as web design, which will enable you to develop skills in a more advanced area of the field. In either case, when you finish your degree you will be prepared to apply to one of several freelance websites as a project manager, providing you have the right amount of experience.
Once you are confident in your abilities and ready to take the next step, you should look for a web design company with which you feel comfortable working with, as many companies will ask for references and work history before they give any contracts. When selecting a web design company, it is important to make sure they have years of experience in providing good website design services. This will ensure a safe and smooth working relationship and a professional level of service.