A Web designer is an information technology professional. He is responsible for designing the graphics and overall layout of the pages of a website. In addition to having a keen understanding of computer science, he is unique in the fact that in order to perform his job effectively, he must also be artistically inclined. He may work within the IT department of an organization, for a graphic design firm or for himself as an independent contractor.Job Responsibilities
- Codes such as HTML are used to program each Web page. A Web designer meets face to face with her clients. During this initial consultation, she ascertains the scope of the project as well as the desires of her clients. After negotiating a project fee, she will draft and administer contracts. Working either individually or with a team, she designs and creates a color scheme, images and graphics for the client's prospective website. Codes such as HTML are used to program each page so that all designs translate into a functional website. The verbal content of the page may be provided by the client, allowing the Web designer to simply copy and paste it into her work. If it is not provided, she may either create it herself, or subcontract this duty out to a professional writer. After receiving approval from her client, she submits the sites to all major search engines.
Job Opportunities
- Most institutions that offer training also offer job placement assistance. For the entrepreneur Web designer, business development is accomplished through networking. Each client should be used to introduce your work to new potential clients. Additionally, companies and individuals may post wanted advertisements highlighting their Web development needs. Online search engines are also excellent resources for those seeking work as a Web designer. Finally, most educational institutions that offer training in online media also offer job placement assistance to their graduates.
Qualitative Requirements
- A good Web designer must be an exceptional visual artist. He must understand color and scale. He must also be able to understand how the intangible qualities of a product or organization translate into the colors and graphics that will make up the website. Equally important are listening and communication skills. If a client's desires are not properly understood from the beginning, the outcome of the project will not be satisfactory to either party.
Educational Requirements
- HTML Writers Guild offers a formal certification program. While a four-year degree is not required to obtain employment as a Web designer, most successful candidates are formally educated within the areas of graphic design, animation, fine arts or a related field of study. Candidates should also be trained on various graphic and Web design software such as Adobe Dreamweaver, Adobe Illustrator and Flash. Many junior colleges and proprietary schools offer courses and diploma programs within the area of graphic Web design. Additionally, the HTML Writers Guild offers a formal certification program within various areas of online media.
Average Compensation
- Employment in this sector is expected to increase by 38 percent through 2016. In 2009, the median annual income of a Web designer employed in the United States is $50,725. This is a very good field to be in, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment in this sector to increase by 38 percent through 2016, a much greater rate than the average industry, which is only expected to grow 11 percent.
Read more: Web Designer Job Description & Salary | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/about_5401620_designer-job-description-salary.html#ixzz1gnn0Wdyz
