Web Designer vs. Web Developer: What Are the Differences?

Did you know that 71% of small businesses have a website? Many companies see the importance of having an online presence. But possessing one isn’t enough since 38% of people will avoid poorly designed websites.

Hiring an expert is one way you can get an aesthetically pleasing and fully functional website that appeals to your target demographic.

But how do you go about finding the right service provider? The first step is to consider the web designer vs. web developer dynamic before making a choice. While these roles are similar, they most certainly aren’t the same.

Here’s a look at the differences between a web designer and a web developer. You’ll also find out how to figure out when you need one or the other.

Job Descriptions

What is a web designer? A web designer’s job is to focus on useability and style. When it comes to web designers, there are three different types. These include user interface designer, user experience designer, and visual designer.

Just like an interior designer is tasked with making the inside of a home look appealing, a web designer is tasked with making a website look attractive.

What is a web developer? Where a web designer’s job ends, a web developer’s job begins. Specifically, a web developer uses the design developed by a web designer and then transforms it into a fully functional website.

The three types of web developers are full stack developers, front-end developers, and back-end developers.

Focus Areas

While a web designer takes a creative approach, a web developer takes a technical approach. Both are needed to create professional websites.

Tools of the Trade

Web designers use creative tools such as Adobe XD, Sketch or Adobe Photoshop to create attractive website designs. The goal is to create a design that website visitors find visually compelling and artistically attractive.

Meanwhile, web developers use programming languages such as JavaScript, HTML, Python and/or PHP. The goal is to create a website that is easy to navigate and interact with.

Do You Need a Web Designer or a Web Developer?

Should you be hiring a web designer, or should you be hiring a web developer? It all depends on what you want to have done.

If you need to figure out website branding, create the layout for a homepage, or edit videos or pictures, you’ll want to hire a web designer.

But if you want to fix hosting problems, create a contact form, or develop a mobile application, then you’ll want to hire a web developer.

There will be times when you need both types of skill sets. The good news is that there are businesses (like DG Studio) that can help if you need help with web design and web development.

You can learn more by consulting a web design or web developer guide.

Web Designer vs. Web Developer: Which Will It Be?

Web designer vs. web developer — which one will it be for your business? Whether you need the help of a web designer or a web developer, we can help.

We’re a digital marketing agency with a track record for helping businesses with their online strategies. Get in touch to learn how we can help your company to achieve its objectives in the online space.