Skills Successful Web Designers Should Learn
Web designer.
This is not just a catchy title people these days have. In fact, web designing is an entire career on its own. Yes, we are technical professionals with a very specific skill set. But we are also creatives that essentially solve people’s problems, much like many other careers.
Our work involves a lot of meticulous maneuvering, paying attention to tiny details that most don’t even recognize on websites. We have to create a harmonious balance between visuals, content, and coding.
On top of that, the nature of our job also requires a lot of collaborative and communication skills. So whether you’re just curious about what we do or are an aspiring web designer, here’s a medley of web design skills that can help you on your way to greatness.
1. Design Software
This one should be pretty obvious. Without the right design software, it wouldn’t be possible to do much. Knowing your way around basic programs, such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketch, and After Effects is important. It will allow you to create mockups, logos, modify photos, and other designing assets.
2. HTML & CSS
Coding is an important part of a web designer’s job these days. HTML or HyperText Markup Language is used to give webpages structure. Without it, you won’t be able to see “cool” effects, photos, content, and graphics.
CSS or Cascading Style Sheets is like a sibling of HTML. It’s the code that allows us to format and change the styles for a web page. It’s basically how we make the fonts, images, and other text elements look good.
3. UX/UI
UX stands for User Experience, while UI stands for User Interface. Both of these are crucial parts of good web design. While the latter is focused on the macro details, such as sitemap, menu-format, etc, UX focuses on the journey. These allow you to create a website that is both easy and visually pleasing to use.
4. Visual Design
Aesthetics are a big part of anything digital. If a website doesn’t look good, your business doesn’t look good. Design principles, including typography, grid systems, proportions, and color theory, are all elemental.
5. Responsive Design
Do you use a particular website that automatically changes its proportions when opened on a different device? It’s because the designer coded the website using responsive design. This ensures that a website is readable and just as easy to use when opened on a smartphone laptop or a desktop computer.
6. Adobe Animate
This one might not be a “must-have” when it comes to technical skills, but can do wonders for a website. It allows us to enhance a dull, static webpage and make it more dynamic and engaging. Interactive animations, flipping boxes, and background videos are all made possible on websites because of this program.
Lastly, technical web skills are sort of incomplete without some soft skills, such as project management, communication, time management, and customer service. Because who wants to work with a web design maestro with no bedside manners?
At Website Ultra, I not only have the technical skills down but also love working with people. With me, you’ll find cooperative and accommodating services customized to meet all your requirements. If you want a website designed or updated, leave me a message to get started.
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