Web developers in Washington 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 Washington 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.

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

1. Front-end development by a Washington 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 Washington

Web development companies in Washington 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: Danielle’s Design.com in Clarkston implements the content of sites with dynamic pages using Flash-based technology. Able Innovations is in Bellingham and uses its GlobalFit process to optimize web content.

Locate a Washington web application developer that provides programming services

CGI/PERL, HTML, Flash and Javascript are common tools of a web developer. Washington developers use them to create hyperlinks, e-mail auto responders, web page validation and user access.

I recommend: The Basics is in Woodinville and uses recent technologies such as CSS and XHTML to build robust websites. Seattle-based highdive is dedicated to web development and uses a range of programming languages.

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

I recommend: Florentine Design Group is in Bothell and has experience with integrating eCommerce solutions into your website. WEBeCORP is in Bellingham and offers many different eCommerce solutions for a successful online store.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Functionality has a direct effect on the cost of website development. Washington web developers will charge considerably more for a site that has online payment processing, custom coding and advanced graphics. Web developers will need expertise in Flash and eCommerce development to provide these capabilities.