Looking at a page full of code might seem pretty daunting to the untrained eye. In fact the very foundation of any site, including this one, depends upon the brick and mortar of code (what you're looking at right now is the furnishings and decor). We'd like to help introduce you to the idea learning how to read and write code is not unlike learning a foreign language, and fluency may prove not only practical, but maybe even fun!
The internet is still growing at a breakneck speed, with plenty of potential still out there. The problem is in order to realize that potential, it is important to be fluent in the language spoken online...languages including HTML, CSS, Javascript... all used to create the visible "front end" of site (web development deals with the back-end functionality of the site, the "plumbing" and "electrical", requiring an equal amount of expertise before poking around). Although it's beneficial to know both, it's much easier to teach oneself the design portion.
4 reasons why learning web design should be your goal for 2012:
1. Jobs
The job market is shrunk considerably, but one industry continuing to expand is online and tech skill services. Companies often have openings for web designers and people knowledgeable with coding languages. In fact, we have several friends who went to school for different subjects entirely, taught themselves various coding languages on their own, and now have jobs working as web designers. Even if you're not planning to be a web designer, knowing the basics of HTML is similar to knowing a little Spanish: it comes in handy when you may least expect it.
2. Freelance
Freelancers with a wide and flexible skill set are the most desirable, and even those with full-time jobs can sometimes add a side income by taking on freelance work. Creating a portfolio and advertising your expertise both online and in real life may lead to extra income. Networking can get you a long way and chances are, you probably know one or two people right now who could use web design help.
3. The Future
The internet is going to continue to expand into every facet of our lives. Although coding languages will continue to change, many of the foundation elements are likely here to stay. Being able to speak "the languages" of web design will only serve to keep you more in tune with what is happening around the world while helping you to stay relevant and competitive in the job market.
4. It Can Be Fun
Bear with us — it actually can be. If you're interested in learning languages, this isn't too far off. Considering web design as a study in a second language. It has syntax, grammar, rules, and everything else a real language has. Additionally, coding can be very finicky. The slightest error can throw an entire website off. It demands diligence, an attention to detail and accuracy. But if you pull it off, you're rewarded. People who have those kinds of qualities will likely feel right at home when it comes to coding.
Now that we've unequivocally convinced you to learn how to code, where should you begin? There are countless books out there on the subject in varying degress of complexity. Two publishers we really like are O'Reilly and A Book Apart. If books aren't your thing, you can also look to a tutorial site such as Lynda.com. We've also used their services in the past and have been pleasantly surprised by the results.
Lastly, Codeacademy recently began a new project called Code Year which aims to teach users how to code in 2012 by sending them weekly tutorials and lessons. The step by step handholding makes learning coding as simple as reciting your ABC's, and the opportunity to learn at your own pace with instantaneous feedback is both useful and convenient.
(Images: Flickr members xJason.Rogersx and Al Abut licensed for use under Creative Commons)
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could not agree more. i used to work in a research phone center and had to learn how to read the code behind the surveys. it really was a fascinating experience to print the full survey with all question/answer paths, dummy through it on a terminal and then look at the code lines to find the source any flaws in the flow. then i'd send the corrections back to the programmers to correct.
just like a foreign language. you just need the key.
There is no recession for software engineers.
I'm a web designer and my blog offers some tutorials that may be helpful for those looking to increase their knowledge. (Especially the 'Tips & Tricks' posts.)
An eye for home decor and layout can definitely translate to an eye for web design! :)
THANK YOU For this post - actually this was my new years resolution, although I do not believe in resolutions, but my reasoning was exactly what you mentioned. I will start with a book, and then the online tutorials.
ELISE890 - I am a person that learns by doing, and eventually would like to create my web site where I record all amy creative outlets... Do I need a web site to start practicing? or how should I do it?
I have developed a blog (just started) that focuses on this subject as well. Except we train people how to make custom websites the easy way, with very little code knowledge.
Check it out. www.CodeFreeDesign.com
I make a very good living using this system, although I do understand code, if I can do most of the work myself and not outsource most things I can make more money.
Great article!
Brian, I feel you gave bad advice and are just trying to make money off of people (please read the comment policy).
If you're wanting to get a job working as a web designer for a company, you will be laughed out of the room if you say you just use Artisteer, themes, or templates. You will have to at least know basic coding.
If you're wanting to get a job freelancing, it's best to learn actual code. Otherwise, if a client wants you to create something for them, you'll be able to with no problem instead of scrambling to find someone to help you out of the rut. And you'll take pride that you're a real web designer, and not a fake.
I've seen way too many people who have no idea how to code try to pass themselves off as web designers by using templates, but then not having a clue how to make changes when a client asks them to. A web designer using templates is like a novelist using madlibs. It's just poor form and eventually your clients will realize you're a fake. And trust me-your competition will eat you alive if you try to pass yourself off as the real deal. People have the ability to "View Source" and see if you're using a template. So the best advice is to not cut corners and try to scam people. Learn code and you'll go further.
If you're not into coding, like Brian above, then maybe being a graphic designer would be better for you. You can design all kinds of awesome logos, brochures, etc and still make a very good living at it. I've never used it so I can't vouch for it, but I've heard people have enjoyed designing on 99designs.com.
If you get started and feel you love coding, perhaps you'll continue to learn and get into developing a website. I started with HTML and CSS, and now I've added JavaScript, jQuery, mySQL, and PHP to my resume and I'm loving it!
Good luck!
I started learning online with Codeacademy after reading about Code Year. Since I'm doing it mainly for fun (though it would be wonderful if it did end up advancing my career), I'm not sure how far I'll go with it, but so far, the lessons have been enlightening, and I'm enjoying the process.
Separately, I'm also trying to learn CSS. I bought the Reilly book, and I like the straightforward simplicity of the explanations.
@EllenChristine, there is most definitely a recession for everyone, including programmers, engineers, technicians, etc. The number of layoffs, entire departments being cut, is astounding. It is a situation I see every day when I visit companies. It's especially depressing when I've built a rapport with these guys after years and then see them carrying their belongings out in a box.
Freelancing is definitely becoming a reality for many Americans and continuing your knowledge is a very intelligent idea.
Thanks for your insight Design&Develop, I must respectfully disagree. I have been in this business for 6 years, use the tools I describe (and some code) and make a great living, working for great clients. I am really not concerned with what other designers think, as long as my clients are happy then we are good!
Also, my blog gives away free tutorials, and yes I make a little $ from the links, but that is not my goal. My goal is to break people into the market and teach them how to make a living doing what I do.
Thanks again for your valuable insight. Did make me think!
Brian
Code Free Design
I honestly don't like this advice. I'm a designer; there's already a lot of competition out there for jobs, adding more people to the game is going to make it harder to get work.
@solarpowerspork There is nothing wrong with people getting a little web knowledge under their belt, and you shouldn't worry if you are a professional designer your experience speaks louder than just the fact you know how to write code.
As for 99designs, please do not promote spec work, it is bad for everyone. Hire someone who will dedicate the time to understand your business and the job.
@Brian
I am sure all those links leading back to your website don't hurt either, especially on a heavily trafficked website like Apartment Therapy?
Third time this week I saw this link, so thanks for the nudge. I am just reading Program or Be Programmed by Rushkoff, and this post added to get me to try it...thanks!