Does the thought of working in web design sound appealing to you? This field is constantly growing, as more and more websites are created daily. To keep up with this ever-changing landscape, a Web Designer must possess specific skills that make them highly in demand within the industry.
This article will cover the fundamentals of Web Design to give you a better understanding of what this field entails. You will learn about the skills needed to work in digital design and some of the day-to-day tasks that a Web Designer may face.
What is a Web Designer?
A Web Designer is responsible for the visual aspect of a website. They work with clients to create a site that looks good and is also easy to use. A Web Designer’s job is to identify a client’s ideas and turn them into a reality. While this may sound straightforward, there are a lot of specialized skills that go into this process.
One of the main tasks a Web Designer must complete is establishing a site’s layout or how its content will be organized on each page. This involves choosing color schemes, fonts, and images that fit the website's overall theme. Web Designers should have some familiarity with how to code in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to bring their designs to life.
The Day-to-Day Tasks of a Web Designer
Web design is an evolving field, so the day-to-day tasks that a Web Designer faces can differ significantly depending on what stage of their career they are in. For example, when beginning a new project for a client, many smaller tasks may need to be completed before the final product can be finished.
Some of the smaller tasks that a Web Designer may complete on any given day include:
- Researching similar websites to get inspiration for their design
- Creating or finding images, videos, and other content to use on the website
- Writing or editing text for the website
- Coding in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create the site's layout and functionality
- Testing the site to make sure it is optimized for mobile devices and works correctly
- Consulting with clients on any changes or additional tasks
As Web Designers gain more experience in their careers, they will likely be given larger projects that require more time and effort. This can include designing entire websites from scratch or working with other designers on major branding projects for large companies.
Traditional Employment vs. Freelance Designers
While many Web Designers start their careers by working for a company or agency, many choose to become freelance designers instead.
Freelance designers have more flexibility in terms of the projects they take on and the hours they work, but this can also come with a higher level of responsibility. Since freelance Web Designers do not have the support of a team, they are often responsible for every aspect of their projects. This can include communicating with clients and completing tasks on time.
There are some crucial factors to consider when evaluating your employment status, such as tax obligations, insurance, and whether you want the stability of a regular paycheck or the freedom to choose your projects.
What Skills Do I Need to Work in Web Design?
There are a few critical skills that every Web Designer should have:
Design Principles
A good eye for design is essential for any Web Designer. This includes having a sense of balance, proportion, and color theory.
Web Standards
A Web Designer must be up-to-date on the latest web standards and trends. This helps them create websites that are compatible with all browsers and devices.
Coding Languages
As mentioned earlier, Web Designers use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create web pages. They must also have an understanding of these languages to implement their designs properly.
Creativity
Web Design is not just about making websites look good; it’s also about helping users easily find the information they need. Strong communication skills and creativity are essential for any Web Designer.
Problem-Solving Skills
There will always be challenges when working in web design. From technical problems to creative roadblocks, a good Web Designer needs to be able to find solutions quickly and efficiently.
How Do I Start a New Career in Web Design?
There are many ways to get started in web design, ranging from self-taught bootcamp classes to full degree programs at traditional colleges and universities.
Web Design Bootcamps
Web design bootcamps focus on teaching practical skills in a short amount of time, often over just a few months. These intensive courses are available both online and in-person, but they can be quite expensive.
Web Design Certificate Courses
If you already have a background in design or programming, web design certificate courses are a great way to get started. These short programs typically take a few months to complete and can help you build foundational skills in web development.
Degree Programs
Many colleges and organizations offer degree programs in web design or related fields for those looking for more traditional education. These programs typically take around 4 years to complete and include both classroom learning and hands-on experience. It’s important to note that you can become a Web Designer without a college degree, though taking a certificate course or bootcamp can help expedite the process and save you money over time.
Self-Taught
Many Web Designers begin by teaching themselves the skills they need. Numerous resources are available, such as free online tutorials and books on web design theory and best practices.
Stay Up To Date With Industry Trends
Once you start your journey to a career in web design, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends. The field is constantly evolving, and new technologies are always emerging. Keeping up with the latest trends will help you build the skills you need to succeed in your career.
If you’re looking for a versatile way to learn web design, consider signing up for a live online web design bootcamp from a trusted provider like Noble Desktop. These classes are immersive, perfect for beginners, and designed to teach students the crucial skills needed to jump-start their career change.