Computer Info Tech Web

What does a web developer do?

Web developers are responsible for creating, planning, building, and maintaining websites. Their clients range from large corporations and organizations to small business and even individuals. The needs of their clients vary greatly, but all clients have a single purpose and that is to convey their need to the masses who use the internet.

Web developers must have knowledge and skill in a variety of areas with a strong understanding of how to combine new technologies with creative innovations. These technologies include: HTML, CSS, JavaScript, jQuery, and PHP/MySQL. It is a mixture of science and art with purpose. The demands on the web developer are as changing as the technology that drives the internet. As such, it is paramount for Web Developers to continually educate themselves on the latest technologies to keep pace.

What skills do you need?

It is essential for web developers to have excellent visual and verbal communications skills. Developers need to listen closely to client's ideas and visions and to capture that essence in a website. It is also essential for web developers to understand that the web is not print and to be able to convey that concept to the client. It is your collaborative effort to produce websites that optimize the opportunity the Internet provides.

What will you need to know?

Web developers must have a strong understanding and skill-set which encompasses several web languages and concepts.

The most basic and predominant language of the internet is Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) -- that is the glue that holds data together. The presentation of data is provided by the language of Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). The Concept of "Separation of Data and Presentation" is required for sound web development.

In addition to the concept of "Separation of Data and Presentation" is the understanding of "Progressive Enhancement", which allows websites to expand from basic operation to enhanced functionality. Thus, web developers should both understand the "Why" as well as "How" to implement client-side languages and programming languages for the web, such as PHP and ASP.Net.

What are the working conditions?

Web developers can fill many types of positions, from meeting with clients to writing code and everything in between. Some may work for firms that focus their skills on specific tasks while others may work for themselves embracing the entire gamut of web development - the range of work is extensive.

The work is always creative, demanding, and fast paced. The success of a website, and ultimately the success of the web developer, is based upon performance, developing novel ideas, and creating new and exciting ways to get the client's needs across to the widest possible customer audience. It is a very demanding, but immensely satisfying and well paying profession.

What certificates and degrees can you get from LCC for a career on the web?

The CIT Web program offers the Web Developer Certificate that is only 16 credits, which leads to the E-Business Certificate which is 32 credits, that will also lead to the E-Business Associate Degree which is 60 credits.

Who do you contact for more information?