In the short time since Peter, web expert and project manager extraordinaire, has left the Roundpeg team, I have been put to the challenge of taking on a position with even more control on the web side of things. As the resident web developer and relatively new member of the real, adult world, I wanted to share some of the lessons that I have learned along the way as a professional in this field to perhaps help you come into your own as well.
Think Creatively
There’s not necessarily just one solution to a web design problem. While there may be a standard way to get something to center on your web page, there are so many different ways out there to achieve a similar effect. You need to be confident enough to test out your ideas and have the knowledge to execute.
I’m learning new things every day through browsing sites like CSS-Tricks, and it’s important to always be learning. In this digital world, it is so important to have your finger on the pulse of advancement. There are people out there who are always trying to come up with new and better ways to reinvent the wheel. Checking out Smashing Magazine is always helpful and informative.
Use Resources
The beauty of being a web developer sitting in front of a computer all day, is that you are not alone in your struggles. If you have forgotten the exact way to make the CSS work out the way that you want it to, you’re sitting in front of a machine that connects you to other people who have probably already had the same exact problems that you’re having. If you have a question, there’s a device at your fingertips with probably all of the answers that you need.
Overall, you can always find solutions on the internet, and you are certainly not alone in any struggles that you may be having. If you’re looking for more than just a quick solution to a small problem, the team here at Roundpeg can certainly help out with many digital issues, and, not to toot our own horn, we provide more personalized solutions than Google might.
Learn from Others
Peter taught me a lot of things during the time that I worked with him. He provided a fall back for me and those around me who may have had web questions or concerns. Being a web developer does not mean that you have to keep your head down and your headphones on at all times. There are people out there to help and collaborate with you. Even if someone isn’t a design expert, they can experience a web project from a user’s perspective. You just need to be open to the potential critiques that can push you out of your comfort zone.
Also, even though he’s gone, Peter had many great words of wisdom to share, from roundups of websites in certain industries to hot tips, and you can still find his blog posts here. His hot takes on the state of the web design world will forever be informative as well as entertaining, and I recommend checking some out.
Overall, I might be out of my comfort zone a little with my friend and co-worker no longer sitting next to me, but I think that this is an opportunity to grow. It’s all about perspective.