In this digitally obsessed world, creating user-friendly websites that perform outstandingly is a difficult undertaking. Gone are the days when designers used traditional ways for designing professional sites that can’t fit on any screen and device. Today, designers are required to create dynamic, high-performing, and innovative websites that look aesthetically pleasing and work great.
Today, organizations need professional and dynamic websites to increase the bottom line and meet the ever-increasing demands of customers. Companies are expecting their web design teams to master different coding languages, graphic design, UI/UX design strategies, web server management and other technical skills.
Besides having some basic graphic designing skills, aspiring designers need to gain hands-on experience in front-end and back-end designing. You should learn how to use necessary web design tools to develop a website that satisfies the needs of the user.
If you are an aspiring designer or just started your career as a web designer, here are some important skills you need to polish to become an expert.
1. Using Design Tools and Software
With the advent of the latest technologies and tools, it has become easier for new designers to create a website that meets the industry standards. From creating website design mockups to mobile app designs, logo design and image resize, there are a number of tools available for designers that help designers to come up with websites that perform well.
It is important for every designer to know how to use different design tools and software to improve their quality of work. Getting familiar with the famous web design tools such as Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, WebFlow, Figma, Proto.io, UXPin – to name a few, will polish your basic web design skills and prepare you to create a flawless website for your clients.
2. Learn Principles of Responsive Design
It’s no secret that responsive design is the most important element of the website development process. Responsive design ensures seamless user experience and content delivery across different browsers and screen sizes. Every web designer should learn how to create responsive interfaces using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript elements. It will help you to create a mobile-friendly website that reaches a wider audience and offers an awesome user experience across all platforms and screen resolutions.
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3. Content Management System
If you want to start your career in the web design industry, then you should know how to use a content management system (CMS). In fact, how to use a CMS is one of the most common job interview questions. Being familiar with the basic functions of the content management systems will help designers to update their websites regularly. You can upload images, videos, and content without relying on developers. Moreover, you can easily connect design elements to any layout and create custom content types and structure to create unique websites.
4. Time Management
It is one of the most important skills every designer should develop to deliver quality work on time. The ability to manage multiple projects, you need to create an effective plan and follow it rigorously. Create a to-do list and prioritize the most important tasks by carefully analyzing which projects need your attention. This strategy will save your time, boost productivity, and meet project deadlines. Using some time management tools is a sensible approach to complete work on time and become a successful web designer.
5. Web Server Management
Believe it or not, web server management is the basic web design skill that can help designers in a number of ways. Unfortunately, many web designers don’t focus on learning server management as they think it is not related to web designing. Getting familiar with the basic functioning can help web designers to resolve downtime issues.
6. Typography
Typography is the must have skill every web/graphic designer has to master. Learning the basic tips and tricks for typography will help you create beautiful designs. Adding beautiful typography to your design will increase readability and enhance the look and feel of your website. It will eventually attract more visitors to your website, which is good for your business growth.
7. Advanced Coding Languages
In this rapidly evolving, technological world, it has become critical for every designer to stay on top of the latest programming languages and applications. It is important to increase your knowledge and keep your websites, mobile apps, and games on the forefront. Learning advanced coding languages will also keep ahead of the game in your web design career. For instance, learning Kotlin, Python, Elm, Swift, and Java will enable you to create better designs with incredible UX.
Knowing the fundamentals of the coding languages allow web designers to create prototypes, user interfaces and wireframes according to the industry’s standards. Moreover, it will help you effectively communicate with web developers, improve your CV, and support the job interview process smoother.
Conclusion
Having creative skills and technical know-how, such as basic coding skills, typography, time management and server management are important for aspiring graphic designers. It is important for building a great portfolio and showcase your skills to your potential employer and land your dream job.
Paul is an content marketing strategist and serial entrepreneur.