Web Developer vs. Web Designer [INFOGRAPHIC]

Web Developer vs. Web Designer

Who Should You Choose?

When determining whether to choose a web developer or a web designer for your next web or mobile application project, you need consider a number of factors - like the difference between the two professions, what their key focus is, and most importantly, you need to attempt to decipher exactly what you’re looking for in a web or mobile app.

What's the Difference?

A web developer specializes in the development of web applications. They take web designer ideas and build web applications.

They’re likely a computer programmer, with a background in several coding languages, such as:

• PHP


• Javascript


• HTML


• Java


• SQL


• C++

A web designer on the other hand, creates the look, feel and branding for the web application.

They generally have a background in one or more of the following areas:

• Interface Design


• Web Graphic Design


• SEO


• Authoring


• User Experience Design

A web designer may also have experience with a number of coding languages.

What's their key focus?

A web developer is primarily focused on the programming and development of the “back-end” of the web application - how the web application functions.

They’re concerned with the mechanics of the web application.

A web designer is primarily focused on the “front-end” of the web application - how the features of the web application appear to the customer.

They’re concerned with the aesthetics of the web application.

How Do You Decide Who’s Best for Your Project?

Start by asking yourself this:

What features will be associated with your web application and how do you want your web application to look and feel?

If you’re more interested in the overall experience of the web application from the user’s perspective, then you should consider a web designer.

It's also possible that an individual will fit both roles, as many web development projects require a designer and a developer.

Additionally, you may consider hiring both a developer and a designer, as most developers don’t deal with graphics, while most designers rarely dabble in code.