Web Technologies

What is web technologies? 

Website design is a relatively new occupation, involving the construction and maintenance of an internet home page. Working on computers with specialized software programs, designers are responsible for the overall arrangement and creation of the internet presentation, which usually includes links to other web pages, graphics, text, and lettering placed according to conceptual layouts and technical specifications. They prepare designs, sketches, illustrations, layouts and visual images to communicate information clearly, precisely and persuasively for their clients. It is crucial that they are able to meet the goals of their client while keeping the website visually appealing, informative and accessible. They also must be aware of the copyright, authorship and ethical issues related to this rapidly expanding phenomenon. 

Website creation is currently in great demand because of the growing popularity of the World Wide Web as a communications medium. However, for the same reasons websites are becoming so widespread, they are also becoming easier to create, making the industry very competitive. As the technology is continually improving, evolving and changing, designers must be capable of learning and quickly adapting to new products, equipment and computer software in order to win new clients

Web designers and developers perform some or all of the following duties: 

HOW TO JOIN THE FIELD 

A bachelor’s degree, usually in computer science, communications or business or Completion of a college program in computer science, graphic arts, Web design or business is required. 

Experience as a computer programmer or graphic designer is usually required.

INDIGENOUS AND REMOTE CONSIDERATIONS  

Indigenous and remote communities are catching up to southern Canada when it comes to digital technology and computer skills and industries. Not all communities have access to reliable, affordable internet and service interruptions are all too common. Access to computers at home is not a given for everyone and Elders and even sometimes younger generations lack computer knowledge, although this situation is undergoing some significant changes at the moment. But even those people in Indigenous and remote communities with interest and high-level skills in computers may not have the same access to opportunities to learn about different programs and may face significant bandwidth issues, limiting their ability to learn and develop in this field. Indigenous and remote students may need qualifying courses or need to augment college learning to be successful in this field. 

Although with significant improvements currently underway to internet connections in Indigenous and remote communities, careers in this field become more viable and are likely to become more so in years to come. 

DISABILITY CONSIDERATIONS 

Since this job may require sitting at a computer for long periods of time, people with visual disabilities may find it challenging. They may require specialized screens. Also, as it may require sitting for long periods of time, people with certain physical disabilities may struggle as well. Accommodations such as standing desks may make the work more comfortable and ergonomic. However, the fact that this work is digital in nature, may make it attractive to people with mobility disabilities, as they may be able to perform most of the work duties from the comfort of their home. People with learning disabilities may require extra support in post–secondary as well as on the job to ensure their success. 

Web Technologies and the Skills for Success Program

The key Skills for Success for this career path are:

• Digital 
• Adaptability
• Communication

Web Design and Development PDF