The internet professional who is involved in the technical as well as the graphical aspects of the client or the organization's website is known as an internet developer. The internet developer responsibilities comprise designing, coding and planning the layout of the website. The professionals in this field are also involved in how the actual site will look like, how it works and is also involved in the maintenance and updation of the existing sites. The internet developer is generally aware of the target audience he/she is going to address and according to it, he/she identifies the type of content that needs to be hosted on it.
Key Responsibilities
The internet developers are responsible for a multitude of responsibilities that include writing the programming code, starting from the scratch. They may sometimes need to adapt it from the existing graphic packages or website software so that the business requirements are met. They also test the website and identify if there are any technical issues. They upload the site on the server and make sure that it is registered on different search engines. These individuals are engaged in establishing the actual purpose of the website and determining the functionality that the site must support. They are also involved in giving guidance and support on the layout, styles and colors. They should thus be capable of handling the full cycle of project and providing the required leadership as well as programming skills. They generally work in coordination with the quality assurance team, so as to ensure that the final version meets the organizational standards. To understand the role of these individuals, let us look at some of the points given below that will give you a more clear and detail idea as to what are the key responsibilities that need to be performed by them:
The internet developers are involved in creating the site layout or user interface from the design concepts that have been provided by using standard HTML/CSS practices. Their primary responsibilities also include developing a robust and user friendly .NET based web applications, designing and creating relational database schemas and making sure that the existing sites and applications are maintained on a daily basis. They design, create and then program SQL server databases as per the project requirements. They are involved in every aspect of the project like providing assistance in gathering the project requirements and specifications, taking ownership for the daily project needs, communicating the project status to the managers, managing the projects tasks, timelines and maintaining the necessary communication. They develop and maintain web based software systems by utilizing the best industry standards and practices. They work with designers and create wireframes as well as assist in the prototyping of the design as well. These professionals, thus, need to successfully incorporate asthetics as well as usability.
Required Skills and Abilities
The individual should possess strong communication and writing skills, should be able to interact and communicate directly with the higher management personnel, clients, etc. A solid understanding of the web application, development process, right from initiation to its final completion, would definitely be an advantage. Strong organization skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and completing the tasks speedily within the constraints of time as well as budget given by the clients would be a plus point as well. You should be a self starter, with the ability to work in a team and motivate them to ensure hundred percent client satisfaction.
Educational Requirement
The most straight forward path to enter in this field is to complete a bachelor's degree in computer science or related field. Experience with HTML/XHTML, CSS, web programming experience that includes PHP, JSP OR ASP, good working knowledge of SQL, prior experience in development that includes extensive use of web authoring tools, etc., would be preferred by the employers.
Work Schedule
The general work hours of an internet developer normally range in between forty to fifty hours per week, Monday through Friday. Working extra may be required on some occassions in order to meet the client deadlines sometimes, including working late in the evenings or nights. Thus, these professionals need to be flexible and adjust their routines according to the project requirements. They can work part time or full time, and can be self employed as well. They work in a normal office environment and may require travelling at times.
Salary Details
The salary normally ranges in between $31,000 to $80,000. The median average remuneration package for these individuals is close to $51,000. It differs depending on the location, size and type of the organization you are working for. The skills, experience and educational background also are the key factors that are taken into consideration while determining the final package.
Career Prospects
The internet developers are mostly employed across a wide range of industry sectors, and there are huge opportunities in IT companies, consultancies, web designing organizations, etc. Those with professional qualifications and up to date knowledge of the current developments happening in this particular field definitely have scope to move up to the higher managerial positions.
Thus, if you have a passion for internet and technology, and are equipped with the related knowledge, then shouldering the internet developer responsibilities would definitely become much more easier.