PA 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 Pennsylvania 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.

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

1. Front-end development by a Pennsylvania 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 web design. Pennsylvania developers also provide 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 PA web development

Web development companies in Pennsylvania 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: Bronte Design is in Ardmore and provides interactive content as part of its web design services. Sposto Interactive is in Kutztown and specializes in web-based solutions, including content development.

Locate a Pennsylvania web application developer that provides programming services

CGI/PERL, HTML, Flash and Javascript are essential tools for website design. Pennsylvania developers will use these tools to create hyperlinks, e-mail auto responders, web page validation and user access.

I recommend: 2World Network Solutions is in Philadelphia and combines professional website development with expert programming capabilities. Axiom WebWorks is in Lancaster and provides customizable and scaleable programming solutions for websites.

Hire a Pennsylvania web development company 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. Find a web developer in Pennsylvania that has experience in building these integrated tools to help you create a global market for your business.

I recommend: Bondi Design is in Pittsburgh and provides a range of applications for websites, including eCommerce capability. Brady Communications offers eCommerce design as part of its web development strategy.

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 Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania web developers 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.