In the digital age, having a professional and functional website is paramount for businesses and individuals alike. Wix, a popular website builder, offers a user-friendly platform to create stunning websites without the need for advanced coding skills. However, when it comes to building a website on Wix, there's often confusion between the roles of a Wix designer and a Wix developer. Understanding the differences between these two roles can help you decide which one you need for your project. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the distinctions, responsibilities, and expertise of Wix designers and Wix developers to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Wix
2. The Role of a Wix Designer
Skills and Expertise
Responsibilities
Tools Used
3. The Role of a Wix Developer
Skills and Expertise
Responsibilities
Tools Used
4. Key Differences Between Wix Designers and Wix Developers
Focus and Approach
Skill Set and Tools
Project Involvement
5. When to Hire a Wix Designer
6. When to Hire a Wix Developer
7. Collaboration Between Wix Designers and Developers
8. Case Studies
9. Conclusion
Introduction to Wix
Wix is a cloud-based development platform that allows users to create HTML5 websites and mobile sites through the use of online drag-and-drop tools. It offers a wide range of templates and design capabilities that make it accessible to users with varying levels of technical expertise. Wix is favoured for its ease of use, flexibility, and the ability to create visually appealing websites quickly.
The Role of a Wix Designer
Skills and Expertise
A Wix designer primarily focuses on the visual aspects of a website. Their expertise lies in creating an aesthetically pleasing, user-friendly interface that aligns with the brand’s identity. Key skills include:
Graphic Design: Proficiency in graphic design principles, including colour theory, typography, and layout.
User Experience (UX) Design: Understanding how users interact with websites and designing interfaces that enhance usability and user satisfaction.
User Interface (UI) Design: Creating intuitive and engaging interfaces.
Knowledge of Wix Tools: Proficient in using Wix's design tools, such as the drag-and-drop editor, and customising templates.
Responsibilities
The responsibilities of a Wix designer revolve around the look and feel of the website. These include:
Template Selection and Customisation: Choosing the appropriate template that matches the brand’s vision and customising it to suit specific needs.
Layout Design: Structuring the website’s layout to ensure a logical flow and ease of navigation.
Graphic Elements: Designing and incorporating images, icons, and other graphic elements to enhance visual appeal.
Responsive Design: Ensuring the website looks and functions well on various devices, including desktops, tablets, and smartphones.
Brand Consistency: Maintaining consistency with the brand’s colours, fonts, and overall aesthetic.
Tools Used
Wix designers primarily use the tools provided within the Wix platform. These include:
Wix Editor: The primary tool for designing and editing websites, featuring drag-and-drop functionality.
Wix ADI (Artificial Design Intelligence): A tool that creates a basic website layout based on user input, which designers can then refine.
Wix Pro Gallery: For creating visually appealing galleries of images and videos.
Wix Logo Maker: To design or refine the brand’s logo.
The Role of a Wix Developer
Skills and Expertise
A Wix developer focuses on the technical functionality and advanced customisation of a website. Their skill set includes:
Coding Proficiency: Knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Velo by Wix (formerly known as Corvid), Wix's development platform.
Backend Development: Handling server-side logic, database management, and application integration.
API Integration: Connecting the website with third-party services and APIs to extend its functionality.
Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot technical issues and optimise website performance.
Responsibilities
Wix developers are responsible for the technical aspects of a website. Their tasks include:
Custom Code Implementation: Adding custom code to enhance or modify the website’s functionality.
Database Management: Creating and managing databases to store and retrieve information.
API Integrations: Integrating third-party applications and services, such as payment gateways, CRMs, and marketing tools.
Performance Optimisation: Ensuring the website loads quickly and runs smoothly.
Technical Support: Providing ongoing maintenance and support to address any technical issues.
Tools Used
Wix developers utilise a combination of Wix's native tools and external development resources. Key tools include:
Velo by Wix: Wix's open development platform that allows for advanced web applications, custom interactions, and dynamic pages.
Wix Code APIs: Predefined JavaScript APIs to add custom functionality.
Integrated Development Environment (IDE): For writing and testing code.
Version Control Systems: Such as Git, for managing code changes and collaboration.
Key Differences Between Wix Designers and Wix Developers
Focus and Approach
Wix Designer: Focuses on the visual appeal and user experience of the website. They prioritise aesthetics, layout, and branding.
Wix Developer: Concentrates on the technical functionality and performance of the website. They ensure that the site operates smoothly and integrates necessary features.
Skill Set and Tools
Wix Designer: Skills in graphic design, UI/UX design, and proficiency with Wix’s design tools.
Wix Developer: Skills in coding, backend development, and familiarity with Velo by Wix and other development tools.
Project Involvement
Wix Designer: Typically involved in the initial stages of the project, focusing on design and layout.
Wix Developer: Involved throughout the project, particularly during the development and post-launch phases to handle technical aspects and maintenance.
When to Hire a Wix Designer
Consider hiring a Wix designer if your project requires:
Aesthetic Appeal: You need a visually stunning website that captures the essence of your brand.
User-Friendly Interface: The website must be easy to navigate and intuitive for users.
Brand Consistency: Ensuring that all design elements align with your brand identity.
Template Customisation: Customising a pre-existing template to fit your specific needs.
When to Hire a Wix Developer
Consider hiring a Wix developer if your project requires:
Advanced Functionality: Custom features that are not available through Wix’s standard tools.
API Integrations: Connecting your website to external services and applications.
Technical Optimisation: Ensuring fast load times, smooth performance, and technical reliability.
Ongoing Maintenance: Regular updates and troubleshooting to keep the website running efficiently.
Collaboration Between Wix Designers and Developers
For many projects, the collaboration between Wix designers and developers is essential to create a website that is both visually appealing and technically sound. Effective collaboration involves:
Clear Communication: Regular discussions to ensure both design and development goals are aligned.
Role Definition: Clearly defined roles and responsibilities to avoid overlap and ensure efficiency.
Iterative Process: A flexible approach that allows for ongoing feedback and adjustments throughout the project.
Mutual Respect: Recognising and valuing each other’s expertise and contributions.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Portfolio Website
Project Overview: A portfolio website for a London based colour grader.
Wix Designer: Migrated from Editor X to Wix Studio, created a visually stunning homepage design and CMS database for the video portfolio.
Wix Developer: Filtered dynamic pages to display Vimeo video content and link with lightboxes to emulate Wix Pro Gallery which didn't have the functions required to display content from the CMS.
Case Study 2: E-commerce Website
Project Overview: An E-commerce website for a lifestyle company.
Wix Designer: Developed a professional and modern design that reflected the company's brand.
Wix Developer: Implemented google maps api with dynamic CMS database to collect and display swimming locations around the world. All content is submitted by website users.
Next Steps
Understanding the difference between a Wix designer and a Wix developer is crucial for the successful creation of your website. While designers focus on aesthetics and user experience, developers handle the technical functionalities that ensure your site runs smoothly. Depending on your project’s needs, you may require the expertise of one or both roles. By recognising their distinct skills and responsibilities, you can make an informed decision and achieve a website that not only looks great but also performs exceptionally well.
If you need help optimising your website, we can help, book a discovery call with Rory by clicking below.