Canada web developers create 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 Canada 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.

Web development in Canada generally falls into one of the following three areas:

1. Front-end development by Canadian web development companies relate 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 Canadian web development

Canada 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: Mississauga-based MC Consulting specifically includes content management as part of its approach to web development. Toronto-based Media Spawn provides content management solutions that can maintain a dynamic website.

Locate Canadian web developers that provide programming services

Website developers in Canada 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: Ottawa-based XAdvance specializes in standards-compliant code written in PHP, XHTML and CSS coding forms. Ontario-based Neomatix develops its websites in HTML, JavaScript and PHP.

Hire a Canadian web design firm that focuses on the aesthetics of a website

A website that attracts and keeps visitors is the primary goal of web design in Canada. 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: British Columbia-based Snaptech offers a range of design options from ready-made templates to customized, showcase websites. Toronto-based SunProWeb follows a highly structured approach to web design.

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 web developers in Canada 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.