Web design is the planning and creation of websites. This includes the information architecture, user interface, site structure, navigation, layout, colors, fonts, and imagery. All of these are combined with the principles of design to create a website that meets the goals of the owner and designer.
Design is a Part of Web Design
Design is a key part of web design. This includes both the design principles: balance, contrast, emphasis, rhythm, and unity and the design elements: lines, shapes, texture, color, and direction.
By putting these things together, a web designer creates websites.
Web Design Has Many Different Roles
When you do web design you can work on entire sites or individual pages and there is a lot to learn to be a well-rounded designer:
- HTML
- CSS
- JavaScript (and Ajax)
- CGI programming
- PHP, ASP, ColdFusion scripting
- XML
- Information architecture
- SEO
- Server management
- Web strategy and marketing
- Ecommerce and conversions
- Design
- Speed
- Content
- And so much more
Most designers don’t try to cover all of it. Instead, they focus on one or two areas where they can excel and work with other people on the rest. But the good news is that there is always going to be something new to learn.
