Am I a Designer or a Developer?

There are two types of creative minds in the coding industry- designers and developers. Many people outside the industry may use these terms interchangeably, but they are very different job titles which require very different skillsets and personalities. If you’re just starting out in the tech industry and are wondering what path you should go down, this article will help you make a decision between these two.

What is a Web Designer?

A web designer is in charge of creating a cohesive user experience for the end user. Like an architect, they make the plans for the website that the developer will work with. Contrary to popular belief, a web designer knows how to code, but they also require other skills to complete their goals. A web designer needs to know how colors and fonts work together, how best to design site maps, and how best to create responsive design elements.

You Might Be a Web Designer If…

You’re a Visual Person

Because a web designer’s goal is to create the best experience for the user, it helps if they have a good feel for visuals. You’re probably a visual person if you learn best through images and charts. An important tool for web designers is access to photo editing software.

You’re a Creative Type

If you find yourself more on the creative side, you may be better suited for web design. Web design requires a lot of out-of-the-box thinking, and a lot of regard for the feel of a project rather than its objective parts.

You Enjoy Instant Feedback

Part of what’s satisfying about being a designer is being able to see your design come to life and then see how guests respond to it through page views and comments.

What is a Web Developer?

A developer works with a designer to bring their plans to life. Web developers do the bulk of the coding, and look for ways to make the code run more efficiently. They’re more concerned with the way the website works as opposed to how it looks.

You Might Be a Web Developer If…

You Like Working With Numbers

Those who like measuring and calculating will likely enjoy the puzzle that is web development. If you learn better by solving equations, web development might come more easily to you. Often web developers are left with a problem to solve.

You’re Logical

If you find yourself liking puzzles with one solution, or questions with objective answers, you may be the logical type. People who are more logical tend to be drawn more to web development as opposed to web design.

You’re More Concerned About Salary

While salaries for web designers and developers are competitive, developers on average make more. This might be due to the face that web developers need to know specific information and must be fluent in all types of coding.

Maybe You’re Both!

Believe it or not, there is a way to balance developer and design skills to become both. These highly sought after individuals are referred to in the industry as “Unicorns.” The hard work it takes to become one often pays off greatly for them in the long run. DevMountain can train you to be both, if that’s the path you’re interested in!

DevMountain offers courses that give you the skills specific to the types of jobs you want. Now that you have an idea of what the difference between a designer and a developer is, check out what classes you’ll need to make your desired path a reality. With a team of real world professionals, a reputation for being one of the most accessible and impactful coding schools in the country, and a program that allows you to take a hands-on approach to learning, DevMountain can help you achieve the career of your dreams.

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