Chinese 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.

A web developer in China contributes 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.

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

1. Front-end development by a Chinese website design agency 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 web development. China website development 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 China web site development

China 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: Ningbo-based Bridge Internet is dedicated to creating content-rich websites that meets the user’s expectation. Guangdong-based The Egg uses Intelligent Positioning to optimize web content.

Locate Chinese web development companies that provide programming services

Web developers in China 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: Shanghai-based Sinodot develops its web applications with PHP and MySQL. Qingdao-based China-on-site Studio uses programming tools that include JavaScript, PHP and MySQL to develop commercial websites.

Hire a Chinese 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. China 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: Beijing-based New View Media concentrates on custom web design with attractive formatting and easy navigation. Beijing-based Javacatz combines graphics with website design to create strategic solutions.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Review the websites in the portfolio of web developers in China 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.