Alaska web design includes the creation of applications for the Internet and distributed networks that run 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 Alaska contribute to a set of guidelines that they consider to be best practices. The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) maintains these standards that developers use to enhance and improve web-based technologies. These advancements counteract the effects of novice web developers who frequently do not adhere to accepted standards.

Web design in Alaska generally falls into one of the following three areas:

1. Front-end development by an Alaska web development company 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 web development in Alaska

Web development companies in Alaska 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: Alaska Internet Services is in Anchorage and offers a variety of web solutions that include content management systems. Strategic Web Ventures uses web content to translate its clients’ identity into an effective website.

Locate an Alaska web application developer that provides programming services

Website developers in Alaska 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: AlaskaStyle Web Design is in Anchorage and primarily uses PHP for its web programming needs. Anchorage-based Alaska Web Dynamics specializes in database programming for its web-based applications.

Hire an Alaska Internet web developer that creates websites with eCommerce capabilities

Your website will need features that include electronic funds transfer, online transaction processing and online shopping tools to sell products and services. Find web developers in Alaska that have experience in building these integrated tools to help you create a global market for your business.

I recommend: Alaska Web and Graphic is in Anchorage and can tailor an eCommerce solution for any size company. Blue Diamond Webs offers the best affordable eCommerce solutions, which includes its Quick Shopping Cart System.

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 Alaska web design firms 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.