Web Design vs Web Development: What Are the Differences?

You’ve started a business and have decided to create your website. However, you’re not quite sure what you need.

You’ve learned about web design and development but still have questions about them. It’s hard to tell what tasks go to each profession, and you’re worried about making the wrong choice.

Does this situation sound familiar? Take a look at what you need to know about web design vs. web development.

Web Design vs. Web Development

Web design and web development are two different but complementary disciplines in web applications. Web development is focused on the functionality or back-end of a website. At the same time, web design is focused on the graphical or aesthetic aspect of a website.

A web designer may use various tools to create a website, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Web developers may use multiple programming languages to develop the functionality of a website.

Web Design Tools

These tools can be used to create a website from scratch or to help you improve an existing website.

Web design tools can be divided into two categories:

  1. Tools for creating the visual design of a website
  2. Tools for developing the code that makes a website work

These tools serve different purposes, but they all come together to create a functioning website. But they can function well with the help of website design tips.

Web Development Tools

There are many tools available to web developers, and the tools used will depend on the particular project. For example, a web developer might use a text editor to write code, a WYSIWYG editor to create web pages or an IDE for more complex projects. Other tools might include a web server, a database, a templating engine, and a CSS preprocessor.

Pros and Cons of Web Design and Development

Pros of web design include creating a visually appealing website that will attract visitors. A well-designed website can also be easy to use and navigate, essential for keeping visitors on the site. Cons of web design include the potential for designers to get too creative and forget about the user experience.

Pros of web development include the ability to create a highly functional website and meet the needs of the client. Development also allows for a more custom website, which can be important for businesses that stand out from the competition. Cons of web development can include the potential for coding errors that can cause a website to malfunction.

Choosing the Right Profession for You

So, which one is right for you? If you have a passion for design and a creative eye, web design may be the perfect fit. If you’re more interested in the technical side of things and enjoy problem-solving, web development could be the right choice.

Ultimately, the best way to decide which path to take is to explore web design vs. web development. With hard work and dedication, you can succeed no matter which field you choose.

Check out some of our other blog articles for more tips and advice for your current or future business.