While both terms are often used interchangeably, they do not refer to the same thing. If you are looking for someone to create a website for your brand or business, then understanding the difference between a web designer and developer will help you save time and, in other cases, money.
Differences Between Web Designer and Web Developers
Before looking at the differences between web design and web development, it’s important to first understand the major differences between web designers and web developers. Web designers often deal with the visual aspects of a website, while web developers, on the other hand, deal with the functionalities, response, data management and overall performance of the website.
A web designer will develop and style all the objects, graphics, and layout of the website. Simply put, a designer will deal with all the elements that a user will interact with on your website. This may include blocks of space, color and graphical interface of the website.
A web designer's main role is to create the visuals of a website mostly on the front-end. They are responsible for ensuring that the website is aesthetically pleasing to the users. Unlike the previous years, many web designers these days are conversant with various programing languages such as CSS, HTM, jQuery and CSS preprocessors such as Sass and LESS.
A web developer deals with programming and coding of the website. This mostly involves various issues, such as navigation and the desired response when certain commands are initiated by the user.
Web Design vs Web Development
Web Design
As mentioned above, web design often lays emphasis on how a website looks and feels. Web design agencies will, many at times, hire a team of graphic designers who will work on color schemes, website logo and any content that aligns with the needs of the client or their brand.
Many web designers often rely on software such as Adobe Photoshop to create top-notch graphics and integrate various processes into their work. These processes may include proximity, color schemes, repetition, hierarchy and alignment. In addition, web designers will also use CSS and HTML to define a website’s overall layout.
Web Development
Web development, on the other hand, deals with programing and functionality of a website. While a web designer may create a button on a website, a web developer will ensure that when a user clicks on the button, there will be a specific response. Overall, web development will work on the code, which ensures that the website performs as intended.
