A web designer is responsible for creating the design and layout of a website or web pages. Unlike web developers, who specialise in creating new websites’ structures and the code that forms these, web designers tend to focus on the visual aspects of a site, such as its layout and its usability. However, there can be crossover between these two roles.
Typical duties include:
- meeting clients to discuss their requirements and agree a brief
- producing sample sites
- keeping clients up to date with the progress
- research user journey needs
- testing site functionality and usability
- demonstrating and receiving feedback about draft sites
- keeping up to date with design trends and technological, software and accessibility developments
- advising clients on search engine optimisation
- designing graphics and logos
- digital retouching and image editing
- providing training and/or support once the site is signed off.
As a web designer, you could work in house, where you’ll work on projects for your own employer, or freelance, when you take on projects for a number of clients. In both scenarios, there can be pressure to meet deadlines and you may need to work extra hours.