An Australian web development company creates applications for the Internet or a distributed network that runs from a web server to a browser. Most web developers also are skilled in related areas that include web design, web server administration and search engine optimization.

Web developers in Australia contribute to a set of guidelines that they consider to be best practices. Web design is a separate discipline that primarily addresses the appearance, usability and visibility of the website.

Australian web design generally falls into one of the following three areas:

1. Front-end development by web development companies in Australia relates to the interaction of the website with the user. This includes the actual appearance of the website as well as the means used to display information and accept user input.

2. Back-end development refers to the database portion of the application. This includes the maintenance and administration of the database in addition to the storage and retrieval of information.

3. Middleware is the term used to describe software that connects the front end with the back end.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find experienced content developers to perform Australian web application development

Australia web development companies will be able to design the website, write and edit text, and document conversions. Content development also includes the creation of guest books or forums and site navigation.

I recommend: Bondi Beach-based Black Max Media provides an open source content management system. Queensland-based Dijiguru uses content management systems instead of traditional methods of managing content.

Locate Australian web developers that provide programming services

Website developers in Australia should be proficient in technologies that include CGI/PERL, HTML, Flash and JavaScript. These tools will create hyperlinks, e-mail auto responders, web page validation and user access.

I recommend: Perth-based Core Internet Development considers software to be an essential part of the website development life cycle. West Perth-based Itomic uses XHTML to build functionality into its websites.

Hire companies that perform Australian web design by focusing on the aesthetics of a website

A website that attracts and keeps visitors is the primary goal of web design. Australia web designers should use a consistent style throughout the site that is appealing and relevant. The site should also have a user-friendly interface with simple and reliable navigation.

I recommend: Epping-based Complete Web Services uses a specific checklist to control the layout of its web pages. Queensland-based Fearn Web Design specializes in designing websites for maximum relevant impact.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The cost of a website is directly related to its level of functionality. The most inexpensive sites that a website developer in Australia can make will do very little, but the cost will increase dramatically if you need a site with online payment processing, custom coding and advanced graphics. Web developers will need expertise in Flash and eCommerce development to provide these capabilities.
• •  Review the websites in the portfolio of web developers in Australia to see that they make a good general first impression on you with graphics that make the site look neither too sparse nor too busy. Additionally, you should check to see if the pages load quickly and are easy to navigate. A web developer should also have experience creating sites for your industry.