Imagine a world without the internet and websites. Simply unimaginable right? What was once labelled as ‘another fad’ has become an integral part of our lives, changing how we communicate, consume content, buy products and services, and more.
As a result, web development is now among the most ‘in-demand’ and high-paying jobs worldwide. Whether you wish to create a website for business, pursue a career as a web developer, or learn a new skill, building a website from scratch is rewarding, opening up new opportunities in the evolving digital world.
This article teaches you how to build a website from scratch and runs through the process of web development in detail.
But, first, let’s understand the importance of having a website.
Importance of a Website
“A website promotes you 24/7”. These words by the famous author Paul Cookson time and again remind us why websites are important. In this hyper-connected world, websites play a key role in shaping our online experiences and paving the way for flawless interactions.
Additionally, a website is an indispensable tool for businesses to establish an online presence, build credibility, acquire more customers, and most importantly, boost revenue.
Types of Web Development
Whether you want to become a front-end web developer, manage databases from the back end, or master full-stack development, you can only decide when you learn more about each specialisation.
Front End Web Development
Front-end web development primarily refers to developing the different sections of a website that users can interact with. A front-end developer looks into the website layout, design, colour schemes, CTA buttons, and other elements that influence user experiences.
Back End Web Development
Back-end web development means building, handling, and maintaining the server-side applications of a website. A back-end developer is responsible for database management, data modelling, server maintenance, API management, and all other aspects of data processing and server operations.
Full Stack Development
Full stack development means end-to-end development of a website and applications including the front-end and the back-end. A full-stack developer is responsible for developing and handling all aspects of a website, from its user interface to database and server management.
How to Build a Website
We now know the different types of web development and why websites are important. It is time to learn how to build a website from scratch.
1.Plan Your Web Development Journey
Before switching gears and starting real work, create a roadmap for your website development journey. Define your goals, and budget, and find answers to these questions. “Why does my business need a website?”, “Who is my target audience?”, and “What type of content should I upload?”. Additionally, jot down websites that align with your vision to inspire your website’s design, structure, and other elements.
In short, formulate a solid plan before you start building your professional website.
2.Create a Wireframe
You may have probably seen designers and developers draw diagrams connected with lines highlighting the triggers of a user’s actions and the flow of information. While this process is known as wireframing, the diagrams and visual designs are called wireframes. Typically, wireframing is the starting point of website development, serving as a visual guide that outlines the website’s architecture, main features, and functionalities. Wireframes not only simplify and make the entire web development process easier but also help non-technical stakeholders understand the functional and structural elements of the website.
3.Create a Sitemap
A sitemap and a wireframe are like identical twins and often confuse people without a development or design background. While both contain overlapping concepts, they serve different purposes. So, what exactly is a sitemap?
A sitemap is nothing but a tree diagram or a visual representation of a website’s structure and interconnected pages. It is an important tool as it provides clarity regarding the site’s hierarchy to developers.
In a nutshell, while a sitemap is a visual representation of a site’s structure and organisation, wireframes represent the website’s functionality and interface design.
4.Write Your Website Code or Choose a Website Builder
Gone are the days when web development meant endless technical complications, endless hours of coding, and frustration. Website builders have simplified the process of web development making it accessible even for non-technical to build websites. Today, you can either write your website code or opt to build a website from scratch using website builders and content management systems like WordPress, and Wix. Both come with their fair share of pros and cons.
While website builders save time, effort, and even money, writing your website’s code ensures faster loading speeds and additional scope for personalisation.
5.Buy a Domain Name
Now, you need to buy a domain name. A domain name is nothing but your site’s virtual address which – type in the address bar to reach your site. Typically, the domain name contains the name of the company and a domain extension including .com, .net, .au, and .org to name a few. For example, Crazy Domain’s website address is crazydomains.com.au.
Once you decide on your domain name, you need to register it to guarantee exclusive usage for an agreed period. It is important to purchase a domain name that includes your company’s name for better brand recognition and online presence.
6.Launch
Brainstorming, check. Wireframing, check. Sitemap, check. Website builder and coding, check. Purchasing a domain name, check. You are all set to launch your website and introduce it to your audience. But before that, do not forget to test your website, and look for broken links, images, and other malfunctions.
Wrapping it Up
We hope you are in a better position to start building a website from scratch after reading this blog. It is crucial to know and learn the basics of web design and development before you dive deeper into the rapidly evolving world of website development.
The arrival of no-code and low-code website builders has revolutionised web development and will remain popular in the upcoming years. What are you waiting for? Build your website from zero today.
FAQs
Can I learn web development on my own?
Yes, you can learn web development via different mediums including YouTube videos, online courses, and tutorials.
Is it expensive to build a website?
While you can build a website for free using website builders, you do not have exclusivity and control. It can cost anything between $300 to $10,000 to build a website depending on the size of the website, the hours required to develop it, and the complexity of the tasks at hand.
Does web design require coding?
While web designers do not require advanced coding knowledge, it is a good-to-have skill for a successful career in website design.
What is the difference between web design and web development?
While web development involves the process of web development including coding, server maintenance, website hosting, database management and more, web design primarily addresses the visual aspects of a website including its theme, button sizes and shapes, and more.
What are the stages of web development?
Ideation, research, wireframing, creating a sitemap, choosing a website builder, purchasing a domain name, and launching are some of the most important stages of web development.
How long does it take to build a website?
The time it takes to build a website from scratch depends on many factors including the size of the website, approval processes, and more. That said, it takes around 2 months to develop a 10-page website and around 3-4 months to develop a 20-page website.
If you have any queries or suggestions feel free to send an email on [email protected]
