The Evolution of Web Development: How Web Builders Are Reshaping the Industry without Threatening Web Developers

As content management systems (CMS) like WordPress and Wix continue to dominate the web, many are questioning the future of web developers. With the increasing popularity of tools like Wix and Squarespace, it is tempting to conclude that web development as a profession is on the path to obsolescence. However, a closer look at the industry reveals that while these tools have certainly changed the landscape, they have not significantly reduced the need for skilled web developers. In fact, they have created new opportunities and avenues for growth.

The Continued Demand for Web Developers

It is a common misconception that tools like Wix and Squarespace can perform the same tasks as modern web developers. To use these tools effectively, a person still needs to possess a sense of design and an understanding of the underlying technologies. Even with these platforms, a skilled developer remains a necessity:

Printers didn't take away the jobs of painters. CAD systems didn't eliminate the roles of engineers. Excel didn't replace accountants.

Instead, these tools changed the way these professionals worked. Similarly, I believe that web builders will change the way web developers operate and force them to adapt and evolve. This evolution is already happening, with many web developers now focusing more on SEO, content creation, and digital marketing strategies.

Increasing Demand for Custom Web Solutions

My experience as a web developer since 2014 has shown that despite the rise of web builders, the demand for custom web solutions has not waned. In fact, it has grown. Many of my clients who initially built sites on platforms like Wix and Squarespace have later approached me to enhance and customize their designs. As a developer, I have been able to take these basic designs and infuse them with additional logic and features to transform them into truly unique and impressive websites:

"I had a design from Wix, and I asked you to make it better. You not only improved the design but also added some complex logical concepts."

Moreover, custom web development often requires a deep understanding of the client's specific needs and preferences. This is an area where web builders, with their fixed themes and templates, fall short. Clients seek personalized solutions that align with their brand identity and unique requirements. By focusing on these aspects, web developers remain in high demand, driving the need for specialized skills and expertise.

Business Growth Through Collaboration

One of the most significant advantages of web builders for developers is the opportunity to collaborate and grow their businesses. When clients use Wix, WordPress, or other DIY platforms, they can easily interact with local developers. This makes it easier for them to reach their goals and often leads to a more personal and effective collaboration:

"Wix provided us with a basic design, but we needed something more. Fortunately, we found a developer who could take our vision and turn it into a reality."

In my experience, this has been particularly beneficial in helping clients achieve their goals. The ability to interact directly with a developer means that the client can provide detailed feedback and make changes on the fly, leading to a more successful outcome. This level of collaboration is often not possible when working with pre-built templates and themes, making web builders a valuable resource for clients.

Conclusion: The Evolution, Not the End

While web builders have certainly changed the landscape of web development, they have not diminished the demand for skilled developers. In fact, they have created new opportunities for growth and specialization. As the industry evolves, web developers must adapt and embrace these changes. By focusing on areas such as SEO, content creation, and digital marketing, developers can continue to thrive and remain in high demand. Successful web developers will not be those who stick to outdated methods, but those who embrace innovation and stay ahead of the curve.