Not too long ago, if someone wanted to build websites professionally, they would typically choose between Web Designing and Web Development. These two areas broadly covered the skills needed to create and run websites. But today, a third domain has become just as important—UI/UX Design.
So, what changed? Why do we now have separate roles for UI/UX? And how are they different from web design and development?
Let’s break it down.
Then: Web Design and Web Development Were Enough
In the early days of the web, a web designer was someone who created how the website looked—its layout, colors, and basic visuals. A web developer was the person who made that design work by writing code, often using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and backend languages like PHP or Python.
The industry was simpler. The websites were simpler too. So these two roles mostly covered everything needed to launch a site.
Now: UI/UX Has Become a Core Focus
As websites and apps became more advanced, user expectations also grew. Visitors no longer just wanted information—they expected ease of use, emotional connection, and seamless interaction. This shift led to the rise of UI (User Interface) Design and UX (User Experience) Design as separate and specialized disciplines.
- UI Design focuses on how each part of the interface looks and behaves: buttons, menus, forms, icons, and more.
- UX Design focuses on the overall journey of the user—how smooth, logical, and satisfying the experience is when someone uses a website or app.
Now, companies often hire separate UI/UX designers alongside web designers and developers because user experience is no longer optional—it’s critical.
So, Is Web Designing the Same as UI/UX?
Not quite.
Web Design still covers the overall look and feel of a website, mostly from a visual and layout perspective.
- UI Design goes deeper into interaction—how users engage with each element.
- UX Design takes a broader approach, looking at the emotional and functional satisfaction users get from the product.
In fact, a good web designer today often needs to understand at least the basics of UI and UX to stay relevant.
What About Web Development?
Web development is still a technical field focused on coding and building the functionality of websites and applications.
- Front-end developers work on the parts users see and interact with.
- Back-end developers handle the data, servers, and logic behind the scenes.
- Full-stack developers do both.
Unlike UI/UX, which leans toward design thinking and user behavior, web development is more about programming and problem-solving.
What Should You Learn?
If you’re a student planning a career in this field, here’s a simple guide:
- If you love design, visual creativity, and layout: Start with Web Design, then expand into UI/UX.
- If you enjoy coding, logic, and technical tasks: Start with Web Development, then explore Front-end Frameworks.
- If you want to build complete websites on your own: Learn both Web Design and Development (like with WordPress), and build UI/UX awareness along the way.
In Conclusion
The field has evolved. Today, Web Design, Web Development, and UI/UX Design are all critical parts of modern website and app creation. While the boundaries between them can blur, each plays a unique and valuable role.
Understanding the difference—and how they work together—can help you choose your path with more clarity and confidence.
Image Credit
Image by freepik
