Web Designer

What a Web Designer Does

Every time you surf the web or buy anything online, you're making use of the work of a web designer. Web designers design and build websites for individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations. These sites can be incredibly basic or incredibly complex and feature some of the latest and greatest coding technology. While many web designers are freelance, there are a wide variety of opportunities for work as a web designer within large companies who need to constantly update their websites and make sure they are running properly. Web designers can choose to specialize in the kind of work they do, focusing on e-commerce or cutting edge graphics, but most are generalists who touch on all aspects of web design. Web designers must work closely with clients, taking into account their needs and desires and combining them to form a coherent and easy-to-use website. As it becomes more and more difficult to run a business without a web presence, web designers will be more in demand.

How to Become a Web Designer

To work as a web designer, you'll need not only a love of design but a passion for the latest technology. Most web designers are graduates of web or graphic design programs taken at a university or college. While an associate's degree might help you get your foot in the door, most clients and businesses will prefer to hire designers who have a bachelor's degree in the field. Through a web design degree program, students will learn the fundamentals of good design as well as gaining a better understanding of how people use, read and understand information on the web. This will prepare them for both the technical and creative aspects of their work. It is important for web design students to build a good portfolio of their work while in school so that upon graduation they will have work to show clients or potential employers. While classwork might be enough, it can also be a good idea to take on internships and small jobs as practice.

Career Outlook for Web Designers

These days, it's hard for a business to get by without having a great website that allows consumers to get to know them and the products and services they sell. Individuals and organizations also often need a web presence to make a name for themselves. It is for this reason that web design is one of the fastest growing careers in art and design. Web designers are in high demand and will continue to see growth in this field throughout the next eight to ten years. Growth is projected to be at least 13 percent, but those with extensive knowledge of the web and associated technologies could see more than that, especially if they can also program and work with multimedia. Those with additional experience, expertise or who have an outstanding portfolio will have the best chances of finding a job in this field.