1. What is web design?
Web design is a form of modern art that’s associated with computerized and creative technologies. A web designer is often responsible for the development of visual environment for the website, the measurement of website accessibility and usability for all visitors, and the optimization of search engine effectiveness in terms of online exposures.
The aesthetic aspect is an important element in web design. The web designer arranges the layout, theme, colour scheme, typography, and graphic images in order to create a virtual personality for the website. In addition to the aesthetic aspects, the usability and accessibility of the website are very crucial when acquiring and maintaining a web visitor base. It is important to create a user friendly website that fulfills all visitors’ needs and fosters a welcoming atmosphere for all new and returning visitors. Skilled website designers must have the ability to make a website easy to navigate for visitors to find the information they need in a timely manner. Last but not least, website designers must also have the knowledge to optimize the online influence of the website, and to further attract target audience in the most effective way.
2. What practical tools are used in web design?
In order to create visual elements of websites, web designers must have a good grasp of design fundamentals and be familiar with the mainstream design software. The most popular graphic software include Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and for more advanced purposes, Adobe Fireworks and Adobe Dreamweaver. These programs are very commonly used in web design, and it takes time and practice to master them.
Most importantly, a web designer should be skilled in at least one programming languages such as HTML, CSS, Javascript, PHP, SQL or jQuery; these are the building blocks that constructs the outer frame of the website, and are commonly considered as the fundamental knowledge base for web design. Web design is a field of constant advancement, web designers needs to continuously upgrade their skills and always keep up with the latest technologies. It’s very important to have a unique taste for aesthetics and a proactive approach to web technologies. The world of information technology moves forward every day, and to keep pace with it, a web designer needs to always stay in tune with the latest changes and popular trends in the industry.
3. What is the workplace of a Web Designer like?
The workplace environment for web designers depends on the type of company the designer works for. A web design company may inherit the creative atmosphere from the design industry and may incorporate a modern taste in its office space. These types of companies encourage creative ideas and tend to create open office spaces where ideas and inspirations can fly freely. Casual dress code is likely to be enforced in this kind of environment while the innovative office culture become a major attraction for younger workers. On the other hand, it is also very common for large corporations with a focus on web presence to hire in-house web designers, and this kind of workplace tend to be more traditional.
Being a web designer, you have the freedom to choose freelance work as your career and conduct your work at home. As a freelance web designer, you are responsible for acquiring and managing your own clientele and generating profit from your own projects. This option comes with a lot of freedom in terms of working hours and location, and is a great option if you are not too fond of the regular 9-5 office life.
Academy of Learning College Web & Graphic Design programs are perfect for those who are ready to start a career in a fast-paced and dynamic industry. Browse our program listings by province and discover a Web & Graphic Design program that is right for you!