Nature of Work
A web developer designs, creates, produces and maintains web pages using relevant software packages.
Basic Tasks
- Designs websites
- Posts database information on sites;
- Runs test to ensure web programs and computer systems are working properly;
- Finds and corrects faults in websites;
- Prepares reports on websites; and
- Maintains and upgrades websites.
Educational and Training Requirements
There is no real educational path to follow to become a web developer. However, there are some institutions and college programs which could help an individual become a web developer. Courses in web design, internet development, computer science, engineering and business will all be useful to prospective web developers. Most of these programs last between one and three years.
Skills and Competencies:
- Knowledgeable in different programming languages and techniques;
- Genuine interest in computers and computer capabilities;
- Should be adaptable to new things;
- Work well under pressure;
- Must be organized; and
- Able to work on a number of projects at once.
Employment Opportunities
A web developers work for companies with websites or interest in the information found online. They can also work as a freelance and contract out their services, or work for a web design firm.
Career Advancement
For web developers who keep up to date with the latest technology, the prospects for advancement are good. They may be given supervisory responsibilities. Some may move into other aspects of computer programming, like software development, operating systems, and database programming.