A four year degree in a computer related field is usually required to become a web application developer. Experience in web application development is also desirable, as is an understanding of web and Internet technology. Some traits that are desirable for web applications developers include technical and problem solving aptitude, and the ability to work long hours on a computer. Developers interested in managing teams of employees or are independent contractors will find additional communication skills useful.
Many web application developers understand Javascript programming and at least one object oriented programming language, such as C++ or Java. They usually have training or experience in application design modeling. Smaller organizations may want a web application developer with some webmaster skills, which may include web server set up and maintenance as well as reviewing web usage reports.
A good understanding of implementing Internet security is important when developing web applications. Internet security skills will be essential for developers who work on sites where security breaches can be harmful to users. These include e-commerce and financial websites.
Experience can help anyone who’d like to become a web application developer get hired. New developers can gain experience by volunteering for non-profit organizations or by working on smaller, less complex projects as an independent contractor. Some may develop their own applications that showcase their skills.
Web developers frequently review application requirements, assess the possibility of meeting requirements given the project’s budget and timeline, and model or design applications. Writing program code for new and existing applications is an essential task for someone who has become a web application developer. Developers may also create support documentation, such as narratives and flowcharts.
Developers will frequently assist with web application testing and typically test their own code before integrating into a larger system. They may also help quality assurance staff by answering questions. Regardless of the tasks, all work should meet any development standards that have been established by the organization.
This is a highly technical position, and someone who would like to become a web application developer should be technically adept and excel at logical thinking. Most developers enjoy problem solving and are able to spend long hours working on a computer in an office environment. The field is constantly evolving, and ideally the developer should enjoy keeping up with technical changes.
Particularly in larger organizations, teams corroborate on web application development projects, so the ability to work on teams is useful. For those who wish to advance in web application careers to management, the ability to communicate with non-technical employees and management will be crucial. Developers who work as independent contractors also need skills in communicating with non-technical people.
