Interface Designer - Web

[mmt4331]

Please read the following that I found on Salary.com concerning what an Interface Designer (Web) does. Is this correct and what other languages or software would an Interface Designer have to know? Also, could this be partly considered a Web designer? Here is the following description:


Designs html prototypes, visual interfaces and interaction of web-based applications. Designs and evaluates visual human interfaces utilizing user-centered design principles. Implements the user interface design. Works with the product development team to design online user experiences. May require an associate's degree with 0-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Little creativity is required. Typically reports to a manager.

 

[jasek78]

Well, to start with, a Web Interface Designer would have to know HTML, and (at the very least) the uses/limitations of VBScript, Javascript, PHP, and ASP. IMHO, there's nothing worse than the manager saying "oh, that's not a problem." without knowing how much work it will take. You should also have a rudimentary knowledge of computer graphics, enough to know the difference between the formats, and what format is better for the different platforms (i.e. modem/broadband and PC/Mac/Unix)

just my opinions...

Jason

 

[Guest_imported]

Designs html prototypes, visual interfaces and interaction of web-based applications...visual human interfaces... Implements the user interface...Works with the development team...

That sounds like what every typical client-server programmer does to build the interface before implementing the business logic behind it. The only difference is that being web-based, they're using a different set of tools to create the mock-up. Unfortunately, the use of high-level tools allows this kind of design with literally zero knowledge of programming or integrated application development. "Works with the development team" is an interesting way to express that this position is akin to the siding company that puts a nice front on the house after the carpenter builds the wall... just my $.02

 

[pl12987]

This can be read in one of two ways...most likely it is not sincere, in that it does mean "a warm body who can throw something together with a kit"

But true user interface design is about graphic design and about usability, and those are very real and important sets of job skills.

For art, it means understanding typography, color, contrast, and the nuances of Photoshop. For usability, at the least, it means understanding the principles of how people use interfaces, and has read at least a few of Jakob Neilsen's articles or books, in the case of the Web. At the far end is somebody who has taken professional training with Human Factors International or some such, and REALLY knows about the research about people's expectations with they put their hand on the mouse. A company that cares will pay $$$$$$ for that level of consulting.

Of course.....almost no companies do care.....(sigh)

PL12987