Virginia 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 Virginia 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.

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

1. Front-end development by a Virginia 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 development. Virginia agencies 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 VA web development

Web development companies in Virginia 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: Arlington-based Blue Underground designs content that includes logos, Flash animations, banner ads and interactive media. Alexandria-based Crunchweb.net designs websites from scratch and provides spot graphics for existing websites.

Locate a Virginia web page developer that provides programming services

VA web developers 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: Alexandria-based Bean Creative has extensive experience in programming and database development for websites. Reston-based Datafocal provides the experience and number of developers with expertise in each language.

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

I recommend: Glen Allen-based Allegro Consultants uses osCommerce to extend your storefront to the Internet. Roanoke-based Allen Interactive Media includes eCommerce solutions among 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 Virginia 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.