Web development and web design are two related but distinct disciplines that are essential for creating a successful website. Even though the words ‘design’ and ‘development’ are often used interchangeably, they are actually referring to two separate, yet crucial parts of the process it takes to create a website. Design is focused on the visual elements and user experience of the site, while development focuses on creating the functional code that makes a web site function.
Web Design
Web design is the process of creating the graphic design, layout, and user interface of a website. It involves designing the look and feel of a website, including the colors, typography, graphics, and layout. Web designers use software such as Adobe Photoshop, Sketch, or Figma to create a design.
Web designers need to have a good understanding of user experience (UX) design principles, as they are responsible for design the look, feel, and flow of a website that is easy to use and visually appealing. They must also have a good understanding of how to implement brand and marketing, as the website’s design must align with the company’s brand and voice. As on of the main touch-points between customer and company, the tone, feel, message and UX are all incredibly important.
Web design is the process of creating the graphic design, layout, and user interface of a website.
Web development refers to the process of building a website from scratch or modifying an existing website.
Web Development
Web development refers to the process of building a website from scratch or modifying an existing website. It involves coding and programming the website’s structure and functionality, such as creating web pages, adding interactive elements, and integrating databases.
Websites are created by web developers who write code in programming languages like HTML, CSS, PHP & JavaScript. Develppers are turning to web development frameworks like React, Angular & Vue.js to expedite and assess the development process. These technologies help optimize the workflow and make it easier for developers to send out websites quickly.
Web developers must have a good understanding of web development principles, such as W3 web standards, web accessibility, search engine optimization principles, and website performance. They must also have experience with web development tools, such as text editors, version control systems, databases, and development environments.
Differences Between Web Design and Web Development
Web design and web development are different disciplines; the former centers around improving the visual aesthetics & user experience, while the latter focuses on coding & programming to create a fully functional website.
Here are some other differences:
- Skillset: Web designers need to have a good understanding of design principles, branding, and UX design. It is essential for web developers to possess a good knowledge of programming languages, web development frameworks and principles of web development.
- Tools: Web designers use design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Sketch, or Figma. Web developers use text editors, version control systems, and development environments.
- Output: Web designers create visual designs and user interface elements. Web developers create website structure, functionality, and interactivity.
- Process: Web design is usually the first step in the web development process, followed by web development. Web designers create the visual design, which is then handed over to web developers to be built.
Web designers create the visual design, which is then handed over to web developers to be built.
Conclusion: design & development go hand in hand.
Web design and web development are both essential for creating a successful website. Understanding the differences between web design and web development will help when planning to hire website professionals to work on or update different aspects to your website.
