What is Web Development? Why is it Important?

Overview

Bill Gates once said, “the internet is becoming the town square for the global village of tomorrow”. In today’s day and age, his words resonate more deeply than ever. The internet has evolved from a novelty to the epicentre of our interconnected world, and web development is what moulds and maintains this digital town-square. 

What is Web Development? 

Before we dive into this topic, it is important to first understand what web development means. Web development refers to the process of creating, building, and maintaining websites and web applications. It comprises a variety of tasks, ranging from coding, server management, database administration, designing, to even content creation. 

In layman’s terms, web development brings all our beloved websites and applications to life, and ensures that they remain functional, interactive, and visually appealing. 

Stages Of Web Development In A Web Application

In the context of web development, a web application is typically broken down into three layers.

1. Database: First, we have the database layer, which serves as the foundation of a web application. This is where data is stored, managed and retrieved. Common databases, like MySQL, PostgreSQL, MongoDB, etc., store large volumes of information, from user information to content, making it accessible for web applications.Think of this layer as a digital warehouse that holds all the information required for your web application to function well.

    

2. Back-End Development: Next, we have the brain of the web application – the back-end development layer. Here, back-end developers work tirelessly to ensure that the application operates seamlessly.This layer is responsible for managing user requests, processing data from the database, and coordinating with the frontend to deliver the final user experience – much like a skilled conductor orchestrating a symphony. This involves server-side scripting, application architecture, and the application of programming languages (e.g., Python, Ruby, Java) and server technologies (e.g., Node.js).

    

3. Frontend Development: Last, we have the frontend development layer, which deals with the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX). Frontend developers work just as hard using technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to create the visual elements of the applications, making sure that it is both user-friendly and easy on the eyes.The frontend development layer is often the most valued by users, as it is what they see and interact with. Though, each of the three lawyers play an indispensable role in the development and effectiveness of any web application.

The Importance Of Web Development 

So, why is web development important? In today’s digital landscape, web development plays a pivotal role for several reasons: 

Global Reach: We are more connected now than ever before, thanks to the internet. This has allowed individuals and businesses to reach a global audience, defying geographical barriers, a feat that was once unthinkable. Whether you’re a small local business or a multinational corporation, your website is now accessible to anyone with an internet connection.

Brand Identity: What’s the first thing we do now when we want information on something? That’s right, trusty google! Websites are now often the first point of contact between the audience and a brand. A well-designed and functional website will leave a lasting impression and establish a strong brand identity with users. 

E-Commerce Revenue Generation: If you’re not already an avid user, you must have heard of Shopee / Lazada / Shopback, etc. at the very least. Again, these applications are made possible only with web development. 

Web development has fueled the growth of e-commerce, allowing businesses to sell products and services online. This allows businesses to tap into a vast and lucrative market, which greatly increases revenue and market share. Afterall, who doesn’t love shopping from the comfort of our homes?

Accessibility: Web development has also evolved to prioritise accessibility, ensuring that websites and web applications are designed in a manner that makes it easy for people of all abilities to access and use them without barriers.

Career Opportunities: With web development as the backbone of the digital world, the demand for web developers remains consistently high. As the tech landscape continues to evolve, so will the skills and job opportunities in the field of web development. 

Need I say more? There is no better time than now to embark on this empowering journey. Whether you’re an aspiring developer or a business owner, understanding the significance of web development is the first step towards success in the online realm. 

Get started now with Heicoders Academy’s very own SE100: Responsive Web Development course, where learners will gain a foundation in web development and industry best practices.