As a web designer, you are responsible for the big picture decisions, such as the menu listed on the site, and the small details, such as which fonts, colors and graphics to use.

A web designer creates the layout and Web design of a website. Simply put, a website designer makes a site look good. They use design programs to create visual elements. Website designers typically specialize in UI, or user interface, which means they strategically design a site that is easy and intuitive for visitors. If this piques your interest, let's explore this career and see what it takes to become a successful web designer.


Job Outlook for Web Designers

A website's aesthetics directly affect the user's opinion of the site and the company. Research shows that it takes visitors less than a second to make a decision about a website, and that first impression is often associated with the brand. According to a research summary by the Stanford Persuasive Technology Lab [1], 75 percent of consumers admit to judging a brand's reputation based on its website.

As a result, companies are putting more emphasis on website design, and this is reflected in the job market. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [2], jobs in this sector are growing 23 percent faster than the national average.

What kind of skills should you develop to become a website designer?

If you're interested in becoming a website designer, there are certain skills you can develop to begin this career path. The next two sections outline the workplace and technical skills you can develop as an aspiring web designer.

Web design skills at work

Workplace skills are also called non-technical or soft skills. Here are some examples:

Communication

A designer needs the ability to talk with a company about what they want, ask questions about the intended audience, and communicate their ideas for an effective site. Being able to communicate is just the beginning, companies also want a responsive designer. A responsible designer keeps the company informed, explains problems as they arise, and negotiates deadlines.

Time management

As a web designer, you can take a freelance approach where you work with different companies at the same time or you can work for one company. Either way, you'll need the ability to manage your time effectively to juggle multiple projects.

Sharing

A website designer often works with other people to create a site. A copywriter, graphic designer, or even members of the IT department may be involved in creating a website. If so, you'll need the ability to listen, collaborate, and give constructive criticism.

Technical skills

Technical skills are specific skills that fall under the discipline of web design. Here are some examples:

Visual design

A core part of a website designer's job is to create the visual elements for the site, so a strong grasp of design principles is essential. Visual design incorporates a variety of best design practices that address things like proportion, symmetry, typography, and color schemes.

UX design

UX design, or user experience design, affects the way a person feels about visiting a site. A designer's goal is to create a layout that is easy to navigate and visually pleasing, resulting in a positive customer experience.

Knowledge of design programs

Website designers should be proficient in design programs such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Corel Draw Graphics Suite, or Inkscape. These programs are often used to create visual elements, create mockups, and manipulate images, all of which are required in web design.

Some knowledge of coding

A designer doesn't write code to make a site function, but it doesn't hurt to know a little HTML or CSS to make small tweaks to a site. With a basic understanding, you'll be able to manipulate templates, enhance fonts, or adjust the placement of objects with ease.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Web Developer

As a web developer, you can work on projects for a company or agency, or as a freelancer for individual clients. Your duties will vary depending on your work situation, but day-to-day responsibilities may generally include:

Designing user interface and navigation menu

Writing and reviewing code for sites, typically HTML, XML, or JavaScript

Integrating multimedia content into the site

Testing of web applications

Troubleshoot problems with performance or user experience

Collaborating with designers, developers and stakeholders