Arkansas 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 AR 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.

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

1. Front-end development by an Arkansas 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 Arkansas

Web development companies in Arkansas 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: SculptNet is in Paragould and will begin formatting all of the web content upon approval of the HTML proofs. Pleth Networks has two locations in Arkansas and specializes in providing content management that allows for live edits.

Locate an Arkansas web application developer that provides programming services

Website developers in Arkansas 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: Sitedesigns4u is in Berryville and uses PHP to develop its web-based applications. Arkansas Business Web Services is in Fort Smith and provides Internet and web database software for a variety of applications.

Hire an Arkansas web development agency that develops 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 online. Find a web developer in Arkansas that has experience in building these integrated tools to help you create a global market for your business.

I recommend: Handsome Web is in Fayetteville and provides 3 different eCommerce solutions for your online store. Web-Jive is in Little Rock and can easily add eCommerce functionality to your website.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The cost of Arkansas website design is directly related to its level of functionality. The most inexpensive sites that web developers in Arkansas 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 Arkansas 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.