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Web Developer

A career in web development is often like playing a game where the rules are constantly changing. You may feel like you're winning, but then suddenly the objectives change and you must make adjustments. If you don't make changes, you might find yourself behind others playing the same game.

Web developers who excel, especially those who love their jobs, thrive in this ever-changing industry. Effective web developers must have the ability to design websites utilizing audio, video, and the latest web technology. They must also possess the technical knowledge to effectively use Ajax, mashups, Web 2.0, and numerous programming languages. Since technology is constantly changing, they must also be able to adapt and learn new skills.

However, many web developers like that fact that their industry is constantly changing. It provides new challenges, enables developers to learn about new technologies, and keeps the job from becoming dull.

Web Developer Basics

Web developers program and code websites and web-based technologies. Web developers have technical responsibilities and should not be confused with web designers who are mainly responsible for designing websites. Web developers create many different types of websites, which could include a simple website for a small business or a sophisticated web application that runs an e-business website.

Web developers should have a well-rounded knowledge, which includes the following areas:

  • Search engine optimization and Internet marketing
  • Database management, including Oracle, SQL Server, and MySQL
  • Server-side technologies, including Rails/Ruby, PHP, and ASP
  • Web 2.0, such as Ajax
  • Extensive knowledge about JavaScript, CSS, and HTML
  • Interface and usability development

Web developers should be multi-faceted professionals with the ability to utilize various technologies and perform many different types of functions. They must also have the ability to communicate with others and manage projects. In fact, many web developers spend a majority of their time managing and instructing others.

Breaking In

Most web developers have a bachelor's degree or higher, even if most of their skills and knowledge are acquired from working. Individuals wanting to get their foot in the door as web developers should demonstrate the ability to develop creative websites and web-technology related services.

One of the best ways to obtain web development skills is to create a personal website or one for fun. Those who genuinely enjoy web development should have an easier time learning the skills necessary to be effective web developers.

Another great way to learn the skills necessary to work as a web developer is to work on an open-source project. More experienced developers and employers can determine a lot from the way a developer codes and communicates with other developers while collaborating on an open-source project. They can also determine whether the developer enjoys their work since those working on open-source projects usually work during their free time.

Morphing Skills

Web developers must possess many technical skills and be willing to make changes as new technologies are developed. It's very important that web developers also have the ability to learn and become comfortable with new programming languages in a short period of time. Effective web developers should also be familiar with Internet marketing and search engine optimization.

Effective web developers should possess technical skills and be able to recognize emerging trends and potential new technologies. Most companies also prefer to hire web developers with the ability to discuss design concepts with clients, determine what their clients want in their websites, and be able to make adjustments as project requirements change. Although most people perceive web developers as anti-social computer experts who work independently, web developers usually spend a lot of time communicating and working with others.