The behind the scenes world of the web is comprised of two different types of people : designers and developers. To most the distinctions drawn between each group are unknown. This info-graphic takes a fun look at the types of people in each profession. Below is a more direct explanation of the differences (though in reality there is often overlap).
Designers:
Their primary focus is on aesthetics, user interface/experience, and brand. Our world today is a wash with gadgets and gizmo’s to do countless things for/with us. The designer is concerned with how those things interact with us, and us with them. How does it feel to us? Does the design communicate its purpose? and How does the design teach you how to use it?
Developers:
Their primary focus is on functionality, stability, and security. Much of the hard work these people do exists out of sight. It is in the configuration of servers, thousands of lines of code, and patching issues to ensure the software stays up to date and data is secure (both from prying eyes, and from loss). They often ask: How can this be optimized? Will this scale as we grow? and What can we do to maximize up-time?
At the end of the day the Internet needs experts in each of these fields (among many others) to be what it is today. If/when you are considering embarking into the realm of developing websites and web applications it is important to understand your needs for these people and that they are distinct professions. It is incredibly rare to find individuals who are proficient and skilled as both a designer and a developer (those who charge a premium as well).
