MD 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 Maryland 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.

MD web development generally falls into one of the following three areas:

1. Front-end development by a Maryland 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 Maryland

Web development companies in Maryland 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: Frederick-based 270 Net Technologies provides a range of web development solutions, including content management. Columbia-based bitSync provides content as part of its web development services, with an emphasis on technical writing.

Locate a Maryland web page developer that provides programming services

MD web site development firms 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: Columbia-based Advanced Concepts provides expertise in a variety of web software solutions. Columbia-based Applied Information Technologies specializes in database programming for websites using SQLweb.

Hire a Maryland website development agency 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 a web developer in Maryland that has experience in building these integrated tools to help you create a global market for your business.

I recommend: Randallstown-based BBC Technology offers a variety of web development services, including eCommerce capabilities. Ellicott-based CyberVillage Networkers includes eCommerce solutions as an essential part of its web development services.

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 Maryland can make will do very little, but the cost will increase dramatically if you need a site with online payment processing, custom coding advanced graphics. Web developers will need expertise in Flash and eCommerce development to provide these capabilities.