Webdesigner

Web Designer: An Overview

Similar title: Internet Graphic Designer

Education level: bachelor's degree to master's degree

Employability: average

Starting salary: €1,800 gross/month

Experienced salary: €3,500 to €4,000 gross/month

What is a web designer?

The profession of a web designer is dedicated to the graphic design of a website. In other words, they handle the design and visual identity of the website. The web designer adheres to the client's marketing objectives and proposes an attractive interface to users. As a technical and creative job, web design can be practiced as a freelancer or as an employee. They then work within a digital strategy agency or a company.

What training is required to become a web designer?

After obtaining a general high school diploma or STD2A (sciences and technologies of design and the applied arts), the student attends a school of Applied Arts. Programs leading to this profession last at least 3 years. Here is the typical higher education curriculum for a web designer:

• Bachelor in Graphic Design (3 years);
• Master in Artistic Direction UI/UX Design (5 years).

What are the duties of a web designer?

Working under the supervision of a web project manager, the web designer works on any multimedia interface related to a site. This could be the site itself, a mobile application, newsletters, or e-books.

Developing a website's graphic charter

The web designer first designs the overall architecture of the application or website. They create a mockup on which they envision various design possibilities. Then, they get the general idea approved by the client. Afterward, they proceed to the graphic design of the website. The web designer relies on the visual identity provided by the client, the agency, or the art director.

Creating graphic elements

Being creative, the web designer designs graphic elements: logos, animations, banners, illustrations, etc. To do this, they master the tools and software of design. As technology advances at a rapid pace, the web designer adapts to the evolution of content and tools. They therefore set up regular computer monitoring.

Supervising an artistic team

In collaboration with the web project manager, the web designer may be called upon to supervise the work of graphic designers, computer graphic artists, and web integrators. Depending on technical constraints and situations, they often have to mediate between artistic or functional aspects.

Required qualities for becoming a web designer

The computer professions are constantly evolving in accordance with advances in the digital environment. The web designer must be passionate to fulfill their daily tasks. A good web and computer culture is an essential quality for practicing this profession.

A developed artistic sense

The creative aspect is very important for becoming a web designer. They draw on their imagination to propose original ideas, tailored to client requests. Over time, the web designer has developed a passion for art in general and graphic arts in particular.

Responsiveness and adaptability

The development of a website or an application represents a long journey filled with challenges. The creation process may change according to client demands. The web designer possesses two important skills for practicing this profession: responsiveness and adaptability. They must indeed respond quickly if the client does not accept the proposals and submit new ideas.

Enjoying teamwork

Whether working as a freelancer or an employee, the web designer never works alone. They collaborate with various web professionals: graphic designer, developer, UX or UI designer, marketing team. Not to mention the communications services and the web project manager.

Computer skills needed to work as a web designer

The good web culture mentioned earlier includes computing notions that are not directly related to web design. For example, knowledge of web SEO is greatly appreciated by recruiters. Moreover, the web designer has solid skills in graphic creation tools such as:

• Illustrator;
• Photoshop;
• InDesign, etc.

Additionally, they are proficient in some programming languages such as HTML and CSS. The web designer knows how to use CMS like WordPress and Shopify. Finally, their skills in UI and UX design are well developed.

What is the salary of a web designer?

The earnings of a web designer vary according to companies and their experience. The salary of a beginner in web design generally starts at €1,800 gross per month. After several years of experience, their salary can climb up to €3,500, even €4,000 gross per month.

The freelance web designer must patiently develop their networks to become known. The growth of their professional activity can take some time. Stability and salary level will inevitably depend on this development.

Training for the web designer profession

Following a general high school diploma or a technological diploma in STD2A (sciences and technologies of design and applied arts), you can join a higher school of digital art. The Higher Institute of Applied Arts (LISAA) offers a Bachelor in Graphic Design program. Lasting three years, this program in visual communication prepares the future web designer to define and design a graphic creation project. It thoroughly covers other design notions, such as motion design and interface design. Finally, the program supports students in defining their own visual identity.

After obtaining the Bachelor in Graphic Design, the future web designer can further their education with a Master in UX/UI Design Direction. This program lasts two years. It is aimed at those who wish to deepen their creative skills while considering the realities of the professional environment.

If you are interested in one of these two programs, do not hesitate to contact us for further information about our schools, the available programs, and enrollment procedures.