Web Development consists of both front-end and back-end knowledge and abilities.

Here at the RI Web Gurus, we have extensive experience working in both.

Common Front-End elements include:

Front-End web development is the interface between the user and the back-end of the website. It is where the design from the web designer is implemented, but more so, where the structure, styling, cross-browser/cross-platform functionality, usability and performance come to play.

• HyperText Markup Language (HTML) is the main language used for websites and therefore acts as the structure or main building blocks of each web page. This language is important for Search Engine Optimization purposes because it serves as the language of which is read by the robots and therefore affects how you are placed within the search engines.
• A websites style is determined by the cascading style sheets (CSS) that create the lay out of a page, as well as it’s individual unique features such as colors and fonts. The CSS acts as a template to be followed for these aspects.
• Cross-Browser/Cross-Platform functionality is how the browsers and computer platforms read and therefore render a website. Because many browsers and platforms are different, front-end developers need to adhere to the needs of them all. This sometimes requires writing special code that may be used on Internet Explorer, but not necessary on Google Chrome. This is a common issue among older websites, because as the trends develop, the older sites get left behind and become obsolete.
• Usability refers to the interaction between the user and the website. If things don’t render properly or user actions don’t perform as expected, this can affect usability and deter future customers. The many launch phases prior to making a site ‘live’ will perfect this process and work out any bugs.
• Performance; this refers to the speed the site downloads, the actions of some of the scripts or movement on the site and just how a website performs overall. A website should be clean, scalable and nimble for optimal performance.

In conclusion, Front-End development consists of the ability to create clear, easy to follow and fast loading web pages that will facilitate the interaction between user and website. It is the forward-looking interface of web development.

Common Back-End elements include:

Back-End-development is what goes on behind the scenes, such as in servers, databases and software. It is where a lot of 3rd party applications are linked and your website’s security is enforced.

• A website server is the external location where all of your files are stored. A server delivers your web pages information as a client requests them. There are a few options for servers depending upon the size and needs of your website.
• An extensive database is necessary for some businesses if you plan to sell products online and must work in conjunction with a database management system. Again, depending upon your needs and the types of products or services you provide will determine what database strategy you will need.
• 3rd party applications and security come into play in the Back-End of your website as well. Perhaps your company uses an application and you would like the ability to access this program via your website with a login and password. This process can get complicated, but we have the capabilities to make it happen. Online security is also something to keep in mind if you plan to process credit cards or important information that must be encrypted to prevent from being hacked.

Front-End and Back-End development are vital aspects of web development. They act as the foundation of your website and should be built with anticipation of expansion in the future. We take the time to analyze your project and explore all of the needs of your current and future business potential so that the work is done right the first time.