What is a web developer?
A web developer is a computer programming specialist whose main role is to develop web applications. Web developers use computer languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript and PHP to bring to life and create websites and web applications. With the advent of the internet, the profession has changed considerably. From showcase websites to sophisticated applications to large e-commerce stores, developers get to work on a variety of projects and specialise in an area. Both individuals and professionals alike can make use of web developers’ services. Here’s an overview of the vast sector that is web development.
Types of web developers
The profession of web developer is as vast as the internet itself. The role of a developer is not limited to the coding of a web page. These IT experts are also involved in the design phase of web projects. Their aim is to meet both the expectations of their client or employer and those of the end user of the product. As this is a particularly diverse sector, developers sometimes specialise. Web developers fall under 3 main categories:
Back-End developer
As the name suggests, Back-End developers focus more on the back-office. This means that they’ll handle the invisible aspects of a web project’s development. Server configuration and development, maintenance and database management are their principal tasks. Back-End Developers are comfortable with programming languages such as PHP, Python and JavaScript. They are frequently required to use frameworks such as Symfony, Angular and CakePHP. They work in coordination with front-end developers to ensure that the end product is functional.
Front-End Developer
In contrast, front-end developers are responsible for the visible aspects of a web project. They handle the entire client side of websites. Depending on the project, front-end developers will work alongside the design team to ensure the UI (user interface) is as functional as it can be. Above all, they must listen to their clients and may get involved in the creation of a set of specifications. This allows them to provide their expertise in the optimization of the future site. To shape the interface of a site, they use the CSS and HTML languages. The JavaScript language allows them to build the code responsible for the various interactions that’ll take place between the site user and the interface.
Full-Stack Developer
In between the two previous categories we find Full-stack developers. They are involved in both the Front-End and the Back-End. Generalists, they can offer the complete development of a website. These experts master the PHP language to manage the server side, but also JavaScript, CSS and HTML to bring the UI to life.
Other professions and practices related to web development
Web development is very broad and has given rise to a lot of different specialisations as technology has evolved. DevOps practices are part of these shifts that modernise development practices by combining them with those of systems administration.
The accumulation of data, which is becoming increasingly expensive for companies, has also led to the emergence of data specialisations. Data Engineer and Data Scientist fall under professions that are centred around web development as they require excellent database management and machine learning skills that involve handling code with precision.
Some developers have also chosen to specialise in a language, such as PHP developers, Java developers and .NET developers.
Services offered by web developers:
The field of web development is particularly broad and it’s constantly evolving with the advent of new technologies. It is hard then to summarise duties and tasks as there are so many specialisations. But we can still specify some of the duties that make up the developer profession:
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Creating code for programming web platforms
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Participating in the development of specifications with the client
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Implementing solutions to improve the features of a website or web application
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Ensuring that the site is optimised for all media (responsive design)
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Optimising performance to improve SEO
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Writing technical documentation
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Training the client to use their site
The role of the web developer goes beyond the website’s launch. They ensure that their client’s site is functional and that users are able to make best use of it. They therefore perform tests, analyses and rectify any errors. Developers are also involved in the site’s maintenance, with updates and ensuring that new features are properly integrated.
What makes a web developer?
Whatever their specialisation, web developers must have certain soft skills that are essential to the success of their projects. Independence is certainly one of the most important. Although autonomous, the developer must be able to work as part of a team and collaborate with related departments. Organised and meticulous, they leave nothing to chance to produce clean and efficient code. Lastly, web developers must adapt to technological innovations and constantly monitor new developments in their field.
Why hire a web developer?
Web developers are true experts in the creation of websites and web applications. They have a perfect command of the computer languages that’ll bring your projects to life. Sure, you could try to create your own website. But if you’re not an expert, the results will be far from those of a professional. You can hire developers for a variety of reasons. Whether to create a site from scratch or for a specific task, their skills are invaluable to anyone who wants to leverage their web presence. SMEs, individuals and major groups alike can utilise developers’ expertise. Need help finding freelance web developers for a project? Look no further. Malt offers the crème de la crème, all you need to do is get in touch.
