First impressions hold significant importance, especially in the realm of technology.
Users form rapid judgments about websites, applications, or programs within mere seconds. Outdated systems, broken components, or unattractive visual elements can deter users from making a purchase or revisiting a platform.
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Hence, the role of web designers is indispensable in any contemporary organization, making skills in this domain highly sought after. Web developers and digital designers earn a median salary of $80,730 annually, with a projected job growth rate of 16% over the next decade, according to [source].
If the idea of creating innovative website features, especially as part of a team, excites you, pursuing a career in web design and development could be an excellent choice. Fortune provides insights into the field and initial learning opportunities.
What Constitutes Web Design?
In essence, web design involves the planning, structuring, and embellishing of websites and their functionalities. The field has undergone a significant transformation over the past two decades. Initially text-heavy and static, websites have now evolved to be dynamic, responsive, and interactive.
The methodology employed by web designers in crafting websites has also progressed. While HTML and CSS were once predominant (and still are for many top websites), Java, JavaScript, and [unrecognized vocabulary] are frequently utilized. Kunal Ahuja, a leader in consumer business at [source], advocates for this approach.
According to Kunal, beginners in web development should focus on mastering the classic trio of HTML, Java or JavaScript, and CSS. These fundamental skills are not only valuable in various domains but are particularly relevant in web design and development.
Soft skills such as effective communication, team management, and providing constructive feedback are equally crucial, as emphasized by Kunal.
This sentiment resonates in the closely related field of [unrecognized vocabulary], which often extends beyond the digital realm. Many essential skills, especially soft skills, overlap between the two domains. For instance, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills are deemed essential, as noted by David Phelps, the head of the display division at [source].
Significance of Web Design
The effectiveness of a website hinges entirely on its design. For numerous companies, the entirety of their services is delivered online. Therefore, every detail plays a critical role. Even minor issues like broken links, improperly sized buttons, or unconventional fonts can deter users.
Accessibility is a crucial aspect of web design. Individuals with visual impairments rely on screen readers to interpret web content. Hence, incorporating alternative text for images is imperative to convey messages effectively. Factors like color contrast and video captions also impact user experience.
The contributions of web designers are often undervalued. In today’s business landscape, there is an implicit expectation that companies should have user-friendly websites that not only captivate but also satisfy visitors enough to encourage return visits.
The field of web design is continuously evolving, offering opportunities for individuals to contribute to building exceptional websites and features. However, this journey requires a solid foundation. For those interested in delving deeper into web design, Fortune kickstarts the learning process by listing some of the available web design courses alphabetically for online enrollment.
5 Methods to Learn Web Design Online
Codecademy:
Codecademy provides numerous free opportunities to grasp the fundamentals of web design. The courses delve into the intricacies of HTML, CSS, and best practices for UX and UI design.
Cost: Free (certificate available with paid plan)
Duration: Courses vary from 1 to 13 hours
Johns Hopkins University:
The web development course at Johns Hopkins focuses on honing three key skills: HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Participants are guided through real-world examples, including coding a website for a Chinese restaurant. Each module comprises videos, readings, quizzes, and peer reviews.
Cost: $49/month
Duration: 3 weeks (13 hours/week)
LinkedIn Learning:
LinkedIn offers a plethora of web design courses covering HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and more. Completed courses and acquired skills can be seamlessly showcased on your LinkedIn profile, aiding in career advancement. Check with your public library, university, or employer for potential free access to LinkedIn Learning.
Cost: ~$34.99
Duration: Flexible; self-paced
Scrimba:
Scrimba presents several courses focusing on core areas of web design, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, responsive design, APIs, and more—many of which are complimentary. The “Frontend Developer Career Path” (requires a paid subscription) includes over 1100 lessons and 71+ hours of coursework.
Cost: $38/month
Duration: Extensive self-paced lessons
University of Michigan:
Professors from the University of Michigan School of Information aim to educate beginners on the essentials of web design. Participants will delve into HTM5, CSS3, JavaScript, and the significance of responsive design, culminating in a capstone project.
Cost: $49/month
Duration: 2 months (10 hours/week)