Web developers typically either develop in proprietary technologies such as Microsoft or they subscribe to the open source model of software and software development.

The open source model has been growing in strength and numbers over several years and the benefits of this model are now being considered by businesses and government departments alike. As such, previous involvement in open source projects can be a real plus for serious web developers. Without a doubt, the ability to use, configure and develop upon open source platforms is a key skills set in website and web application development.

Some baseline Web Development skills/technologies

XHTML / HTML

XSL

CSS

Client side scripting (e.g. VB Script, JavaScript)

Server side scripting (e.g. php, asp, JSP)

Database skills (SQL, MySQL, Oracle etc)

The dramatic evolution of the web over the last few years has led to a real shift in the way that we all use the Internet. From interactive sites to social media interaction and mobile phone sites and apps, connectivity is weaving its way into all of our lives in one way or another.

In many ways, better access to the web and faster connection speeds etc. have provided the backbone for all this to happen and the people who actually create the “magic” are the Web Developers and Web Application and platform developers.

The web development skillset has really changed over the last few years. Development of advanced sophisticated web applications has became a reality. This reality has resulted in many business leaders, software houses, entrepreneurs etc asking the question “can this system, process or application be web enabled …and what value would this add?”

Good developers know their way around web scripting language and can adapt, tweak and add some value to existing applications however really great web developers are typically those who bring existing heavy duty programming skills to a web based environment and can create applications from the ground up.

As well as core programming skills web developers must have strong understanding of usability and create systems with users in mind. Best practice around user experience is different in an online environment and website platforms need to be incredibly user friendly as user attention span online is becoming increasingly miniscule!