If you are updating your website or creating a new one but are unsure whether to hire a website designer or developer, we are here to solve your confusion. In this blog, we will explore all about web design and development and how to create a successful user experience website.

Web Design and Web Development:
We live in a digital world; rather than isolating, we must be digitally present on all platforms. It is extremely important for businesses to have a strong online presence, and that’s where web development and designing come into play. You are not wrong if you think both are the same because these terms are often used interchangeably, but they refer to two different areas of expertise. Firstly, let’s understand both the terms by definition and operation.

1. Web Development:
Creating, building, and maintaining websites and web applications is known as web development. Web development involves web design, programming, and database management. It is indeed closely related to web design, which is why both terms are used interchangeably.

Web development involves programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc. It also includes using other programs to manage the websites’ core construction. In simpler words, web development maintains the core structure of a website, and it involves a lot of technical work.

Web design and development are interrelated as developers take ideas and concepts from designers and turn them into realistic, functioning websites. However, it also means that the developer has to construct the website itself, including the coding and configuration of the server and the databases on the back end. Not to mention, they are also responsible for testing and debugging the post-launch services.

Differences between Web Design vs. Web Development:
Web design and development are two different areas; both are important for delivering an effective and exceptional user experience. Let’s explore the core difference between the two to get a clearer picture.

1. Visual Assets:
One major misconception is that web developers are responsible for creating assets. No, they are not; web designers are responsible for creating visual assets and adding aesthetic value to the website, which enhances the user experience, whereas web developers are responsible for adding those functionalities.

Translating designer mockups and wireframes is the responsibility of a developer, who then uses codes such as JavaScript, CSS, HTML, etc. The web developer is responsible for adding visual assets to the website, but the designer is responsible for creating them.

2. Code-Generation:
What if you hire a web designer, thinking development and design are the same thing, and ask the designer to write the code?

Spot on—another major difference is that designers do not write codes and are not responsible for coding. A web developer is responsible for writing codes and using programming languages to create an appealing user interface. At the same time, a web designer is responsible for developing images, creating mockups, designing layouts, etc.

3. Differences of Charges:
Web development is more expensive than web design. Yes, on an average note, a designer earns $30/hr, but a developer makes $36/hr. Web development is a more complex process than designing and involves coding as well. Web development adds functionality to the website, and web design adds to its aesthetic appeal.

2. Web Design:
Web design is the art of planning, arranging, and synchronizing the content on a website and making it accessible online. It is more of a combination of aesthetic and functional elements that determines the look of a website. The colours, fonts, graphics, user interface, etc., all come under web design.

Having a website is crucially important today and is considered one of the pillars of having an online presence. The digital design world is ever evolving, including mobile apps and user interface design. Web design meets the growing needs of website owners and, ultimately, visitors as well. It is a collaboration process that includes knowledge from UX and SEO, and web designers often include the relevant professionals who can optimize the performance.

Your website’s visual appeal and usability depend on web design, and the main objective is to achieve an aesthetically pleasing design that also provides a user-friendly experience. A web designer will incorporate elements in the design that drive seamless conversions and ensure smooth mobile responsiveness across all pages. It is better to convey all your desired expectations to your web designers; with accurate information, they will be able to create an engaging and easy interface.

Similarities between Web Design vs. Web Development:
Let’s explore why web design and development are often mistaken as the same thing.

1. Engaging User Experience:
If you want visitors to return to your website, your user experience must be that great; it should engage the customers. An appealing user experience is positively associated with the website and the product. The goal of both design and development is to enhance the user experience.

The design process provides a proper and easy-to-understand navigation experience for your website. On the other hand, the development guarantees that the website functions properly. A website that does not work properly is invaluable to the consumer.

2. Coherent and Cohesive Website:
Investing in both design and development is equally important because both areas work towards developing a cohesive and functional website. Without a proper design, your website will not attract customers. Moreover, without proper development, your website will not function properly; hence, both are working towards the main purpose—to provide an exceptional web experience.

Final Thoughts:
Web development and design both play an important role in maintaining an online presence. However, both the terms are used interchangeably; they belong to different areas and work towards achieving the same output. The main difference between the two is that developers are more inclined towards technical aspects, including programming and coding. At the same time, designers are in charge of creating high-quality UX and UI. If you want to hire a web developer or a designer, you can connect with web development services in the USA.