Web Developer vs. User Interface Developer – How are they Different?

Often the terms web developers and user interface developers are used synonymously, but they are rather two different concepts. In this post, we will discuss how a Web developer is different from UI developer in skills and functionality.

Who is a Web Developer?

A web developer is one who is responsible for building and maintaining highly functional and robust websites. While it may sound quite similar to what a web designer does, the former focuses on how a website performs rather than how it looks. A professional web developer must have expertise in HTML and other programming languages and databases, proficient coding, and building robust and scalable websites.

A good web developer will be expert in using HTML, JavaScript, MySQL, PHP, ASP.NET, C++, Java, and other databases and programming languages. At the same time, they must be efficient in project management and time management. These are some of the most vital skills that a web developer possess because they are responsible of creating a website’s functionality while working in collaboration with website designers and UI developers, who are more focused to create the right look and feel.

Who is a UI Developer?

UI stands for User Interface. It is defined as every element with which and user interacts when using a computer or mobile device. It may include display screen, keyboards and mouse, and even the look and design of a website. In terms of website development, it is the first thing with which a user interacts, i.e. its appearance, graphics, artwork, etc. However, the role of a User Interface developer is not limited to the above. Let’s delve little deeper. Here are some layers that form an integral part of website or application development:

• User Experience: The appearance and feel of a website or applications, performed by UX designers 

• Application Layer: This involves coded programs that lie underneath the User Interface and are responsible for improved functionality of the graphical user interface.

• Network Layer: This includes elements of a website or application that are responsible to move data to and from the server and front end of a website.  

Now, a UI developer sits right between UX designers and application developers. They have a blend of design skills and technical know-how, and have the responsibility to ensure that a website looks great and works well at the same time. A highly skilled User Interface developer has knowledge in website design and graphical programs, as well as posses a strong understanding of HTML and coding.

Difference Between a Web Developer and UI Developer

So, coming to what is the different between a website developer and UI developer?

A web developer is one who has the skills and knowledge required to develop a complete end-to-end web solution. On the other hand, an UI developer possesses more discipline-oriented skills pertaining to the look, feel and usability of a website.

In today’s web design and development industry, having people with diverse skills, it is not surprising to find people who have a background in graphic design and are also good UI developers, capable of creative eye-catching and interactive end user interfaces. However, they may not be sufficiently skilled in the more technical aspects that lie beyond User Interface. That is the domain of a web programmer or web developer.

The fields are different, and so are the skill sets. Whether you are looking to hire professionals for your website development project, or aspiring to pursue to a career in this industry, it is vital to understand the fine line of difference between a web developer and User Interface developer to have the best value.