Ohio 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 Ohio 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.

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

1. Front-end development by an Ohio 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 Ohio

Web development companies in Ohio 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: Medina-based GHI Internet Services uses a content management system to change web content without the aid of a programmer. West Chester-based Infitech designs websites to allow frequent updating of content.

Locate an Ohio web application developer that provides programming services

Website developers in Ohio 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: Cygnet-based Byte-Builders provides web development that uses PHP programming and CGI scripting. Toledo-based BizTech provides programming expertise in ASP, PHP, ASP.net programming.

Hire an Ohio web 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 Ohio that has experience in building these integrated tools to help you create a global market for your business.

I recommend: Elyria-based Holland Computers uses EzWeb Product Cart for online sales. Cincinnati-based Wymore & Associates provides eCommerce capability as 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 Ohio 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.