Career Spotlight: Web Developer

Working as a Web developer is something like playing a sport with a continuously changing set of rules. One minute you’re charging down the field at full throttle, and then suddenly the rules change and you need to readjust your strategy -- fast -- or find yourself benched.

Successful Web developers -- at least, those who enjoy their work -- thrive in this topsy-turvy environment, reveling in the ever-evolving nature of Web development. Web 2.0, mashups, Ajax, audio and video all provide ample fodder for active brains -- even if it means difficult technical skills mastered over the years may be in-demand one moment, close-to-worthless the next.

“The Web is still the Wild West in many aspects,” says Adrian Holovaty, who writes a blog about Web development and serves as editor of editorial innovations at Washingtonpost.Newsweek Interactive. “I love the fact the rules haven’t yet been set in stone and that new techniques and technologies come along all the time.”

Web Developer Basics

A Web developer is responsible for the behind-the-scenes code and programming of Web sites and Web-based services. While the edges are often blurred in Web positions, Web developers typically have a more technical orientation than Web designers , who focus on a site’s look and feel, and information architects, who focus on sites’ organization. Web developers’ projects vary widely, ranging from bare-bones active Web pages to complex, multilayered Web applications that might power an ecommerce site.

Web developers need to have broad-based knowledge, encompassing areas such as:

• Usability and interface design.
• Basic Web skills, such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript.
• Web 2.0 skills, including Ajax.
• Server-side technologies, such as ASP, PHP and Ruby on Rails.
• Databases such as MySQL, SQL Server, Oracle or IBM’s DB2.
• Online marketing and search engine optimization.

“To me, the title Web developer implies a level of knowledge and ability that spans multiple layers of Web development -- sort of a jack-of-all-trades skill set,” says Holovaty.

Given the collaborative aspects of Web work, strong soft skills are crucial. “Eighty percent of this game is about communication, another 15 percent is about expectation management and 5 percent is actually doing the work,” says Thomas Myer, author of No Nonsense XML Web Development with PHP .

Breaking In

Today’s Web developers typically have at least a bachelor’s degree, even if they have gained much of their know-how from on-the-job experience. To break into the field, you need to demonstrate you can create Web sites and services. “Build a Web application for fun,” suggests Holovaty. “The best way to learn is if you’re applying your new skills to something that you genuinely want to do.”

Or contribute to an open-source project. “Why?” asks Holovaty, who is a lead developer of the open-source programming framework Django. “Because I can see for myself the quality of the person’s code. I can see how the person works with other developers, I can see the person’s communication skills and I can see that the person is genuinely interested enough in development that he or she devotes spare time to working on projects purely for the love of it.”

Morphing Skills

Web developers need top-notch technical skills and a willingness to switch to new technologies as they evolve. “The hard skills come and go…you must have the ability to learn new programming languages quickly,” says Myer.

And those skills should extend beyond hardcore technical skills. “You can’t be a good developer without having some knowledge of terms such as accessibility, usability and search engine optimization,” says Cristian Darie, coauthor of AJAX and PHP: Building Responsive Web Applications and other books about Web technologies.

“As a Web developer, it is very important not only to be skilled in today’s technologies, but also to keep an open eye for future developments and emerging technologies,” adds Darie.

Other key skills include tasks like gathering requirements and working with clients to review prototypes and designs. “If a developer can keep a good attitude, ask lots of questions, gather requirements, set the customer's expectations and handle all the little project things that come up -- they’re much more valuable to me than the antisocial ubergeek who never emerges from his cave and scowls at all mere mortals,” says Myer.

Is grease in the power supply a bad thing?

By hiding the computer under a mountain of trash, this user is cleverly protecting it from would-be thieves. I can hear the user asking a support tech "Is grease in the power supply a bad thing?"

Being More than Just a 'Geek' on the job

Significant Points

Rapid job growth is projected over the 2004-14 period. There are many paths of entry to these occupations. Job prospects should be best for college graduates who are up to date with the latest skills and technologies; certifications and practical experience are essential for persons without degrees.

Nature of the Work

In the last decade, computers have become an integral part of everyday life, used for a variety of reasons at home, in the workplace, and at schools. Of course, almost every computer user encounters a problem occasionally, whether it is the disaster of a crashing hard drive or the annoyance of a forgotten password. The explosive use of computers has created a high demand for specialists to provide advice to users, as well as for day-to-day administration, maintenance, and support of computer systems and networks. Computer support specialists provide technical assistance, support, and advice to customers and other users. This occupational group includes technical support specialists and help-desk technicians. These troubleshooters interpret problems and provide technical support for hardware, software, and systems. They answer telephone calls, analyze problems by using automated diagnostic programs, and resolve recurring difficulties. Support specialists may work either within a company that uses computer systems or directly for a computer hardware or software vendor. Increasingly, these specialists work for help-desk or support services firms, for which they provide computer support to clients on a contract basis. Technical support specialists answer telephone calls from their organizations’ computer users and may run automatic diagnostics programs to resolve problems. Working on monitors, keyboards, printers, and mice, they install, modify, clean, and repair computer hardware and software. They also may write training manuals and train computer users in how to use new computer hardware and software. In addition, technical support specialists oversee the daily performance of their company’s computer systems and evaluate software programs with regard to their usefulness. Help-desk technicians assist computer users with the inevitable hardware and software questions that are not addressed in a product’s instruction manual. Help-desk technicians field telephone calls and e-mail messages from customers who are seeking guidance on technical problems. In responding to these requests for guidance, help-desk technicians must listen carefully to the customer, ask questions to diagnose the nature of the problem, and then patiently walk the customer through the problem-solving steps. Help-desk technicians deal directly with customer issues, and companies value them as a source of feedback on their products. These technicians are consulted for information about what gives customers the most trouble, as well as other customer concerns. Most computer support specialists start out at the help desk. Network administrators and computer systems administrators design, install, and support an organization’s local-area network (LAN), wide-area network (WAN), network segment, Internet, or intranet system. They provide day-to-day onsite administrative support for software users in a variety of work environments, including professional offices, small businesses, government, and large corporations. They maintain network hardware and software, analyze problems, and monitor the network to ensure its availability to system users. These workers gather data to identify customer needs and then use the information to identify, interpret, and evaluate system and network requirements. Administrators also may plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures. Systems administrators are the information technology employees responsible for the efficient use of networks by organizations. They ensure that the design of an organization’s computer site allows all of the components, including computers, the network, and software, to fit together and work properly. Furthermore, they monitor and adjust the performance of existing networks and continually survey the current computer site to determine future network needs. Administrators also troubleshoot problems reported by users and by automated network monitoring systems and make recommendations for enhancements in the implementation of future servers and networks. In some organizations, computer security specialists may plan, coordinate, and implement the organization’s information security. These workers may be called upon to educate users about computer security, install security software, monitor the network for security breaches, respond to cyber attacks, and, in some cases, gather data and evidence to be used in prosecuting cyber crime. The responsibilities of computer security specialists has increased in recent years as there has been a large increase in the number of cyber attacks on data and networks. This and other growing specialty occupations reflect an increasing emphasis on client-server applications, the expansion of Internet and intranet applications, and the demand for more end-user support.

Working Conditions

Computer support specialists and systems administrators normally work in well-lighted, comfortable offices or computer laboratories. They usually work about 40 hours a week, but that may include being “on call” via pager or telephone for rotating evening or weekend work if the employer requires computer support over extended hours. Overtime may be necessary when unexpected technical problems arise. Like other workers who type on a keyboard for long periods, computer support specialists and systems administrators are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort, and hand and wrist problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Due to the heavy emphasis on helping all types of computer users, computer support specialists and systems administrators constantly interact with customers and fellow employees as they answer questions and give valuable advice. Those who work as consultants are away from their offices much of the time, sometimes spending months working in a client’s office. As computer networks expand, more computer support specialists and systems administrators may be able to connect to a customer’s computer remotely, using modems, laptops, e-mail, and the Internet, to provide technical support to computer users. This capability would reduce or eliminate travel to the customer’s workplace. Systems administrators also can administer and configure networks and servers remotely, although this practice is not as common as it is among computer support specialists.

Employment

Computer support specialists and systems administrators held about 797,000 jobs in 2004. Of these, approximately 518,000 were computer support specialists and around 278,000 were network and computer systems administrators. Although they worked in a wide range of industries, about 23 percent of all computer support specialists and systems administrators were employed in professional, scientific, and technical services industries, principally computer systems design and related services. Other organizations that employed substantial numbers of these workers include administrative and support services companies, banks, government agencies, insurance companies, educational institutions, and wholesale and retail vendors of computers, office equipment, appliances, and home electronic equipment. Many computer support specialists worked for manufacturers of computers, semiconductors, and other electronic components. Employers of computer support specialists and systems administrators range from startup companies to established industry leaders. With the continued development of the Internet, telecommunications, and e-mail, industries not typically associated with computers—such as construction—increasingly need computer workers. Small and large firms across all industries are expanding or developing computer systems, creating an immediate need for computer support specialists and systems administrators.

Training

Due to the wide range of skills required, there are many paths of entry to a job as a computer support specialist or systems administrator. While there is no universally accepted way to prepare for a job as a computer support specialist, many employers prefer to hire persons with some formal college education. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information systems is a prerequisite for some jobs; however, other jobs may require only a computer-related associate’s degree. For systems administrators, many employers seek applicants with bachelor’s degrees, although not necessarily in a computer-related field. A number of companies are becoming more flexible about requiring a college degree for support positions. However, certification and practical experience demonstrating these skills will be essential for applicants without a degree. The completion of a certification training program, offered by a variety of vendors and product makers, may help some people to qualify for entry-level positions. Relevant computer experience may substitute for formal education. Beginning computer support specialists usually work for organizations that deal directly with customers or in-house users. Then they may advance into more responsible positions in which they use what they have learned from customers to improve the design and efficiency of future products. Job promotions usually depend more on performance than on formal education. Eventually, some computer support specialists become applications developers, designing products rather than assisting users. Computer support specialists at hardware and software companies often enjoy great upward mobility; advancement sometimes comes within months of one’s initial employment. Entry-level network and computer systems administrators are involved in routine maintenance and monitoring of computer systems, typically working behind the scenes in an organization. After gaining experience and expertise, they often are able to advance into more senior-level positions, in which they take on more responsibilities. For example, senior network and computer systems administrators may present recommendations to management on matters related to a company’s network. They also may translate the needs of an organization into a set of technical requirements based on the available technology. As with support specialists, administrators may become software engineers, actually involved in the designing of the system or network and not just its day-to-day administration. Persons interested in becoming a computer support specialist or systems administrator must have strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills, because troubleshooting and helping others are vital parts of the job. The constant interaction with other computer personnel, customers, and employees requires computer support specialists and systems administrators to communicate effectively on paper, via e-mail, or in person. Strong writing skills are useful in preparing manuals for employees and customers. As technology continues to improve, computer support specialists and systems administrators must keep their skills current and acquire new ones. Many continuing education programs are provided by employers, hardware and software vendors, colleges and universities, and private training institutions. Professional development seminars offered by computing services firms also can enhance one’s skills and advancement opportunities.

Interview On the Horizon in Livonia, MI next week

Today I just received a call from 'Banker's Life' and Casualty Company. They found my resume online and wanted to bring me in for chat. How nice! Below is a short excerpt about Banker's Life and Casualty Company.

Established in 1879, and is today one of the largest and most respected insurance companies in the United States focused exclusively on the needs of senior Americans.

Bankers services the needs of seniors through a broad portfolio of quality, competitive insurance products including long term care, life, annuities and Medicare supplement; a national sales force of professionally trained career agents; and a dedicated group of highly capable home office employees.

I get to meet the hiring manager Tuesday for an interview. Wish me the best.

Learning New Things - Ubuntu

As a geekster, I love to learn about other interesting operation systems. Ubuntu has caught my attention over the last two years. This OS is very cool to say the least. I am looking forward when Ubuntu will be wide spread and easy to use for everyone. When all installation packages can be installed as easy as in Microsoft Windows, then all peace and harmony will be restored. Here's a few exciting features.

Features

OpenOffice - A complete productivity suite

Word Processor has everything you would expect from a modern, fully equipped word processor or desktop publisher. It's simple enough for a quick memo, powerful enough to create complete books with contents, diagrams, indexes, etc. You're free to concentrate on your message - while Word Processor makes it look great. The Wizards feature takes all the hassle out of producing standard documents such as letters, faxes, agendas, minutes, or carrying out more complex tasks such as mail merges.

Spreadsheet is the programme you've always wanted. Newcomers find it intuitive and easy to learn; professional data miners and number crunchers will appreciate the comprehensive range of advanced functions. Of course, you are free to use your old Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, or save your work in Excel format for sending to people who still use Microsoft products. If all they want to see is your results, then use Portable Document Format (.pdf) - no need to buy any extra software.

Presentation is an outstanding tool for creating effective multimedia presentations. Your presentations will stand out with 2D and 3D clip art, special effects, animation, and high-impact drawing tools. A complete range of views are supported: Drawing / Outline / Slides / Notes / Handouts to meet all the needs of presenters and audiences, plus an optional multi-pane view to put all the tools at your fingertips.

Integrated email and calendaring

Whether you need to simply check your email, create a calendar or search for a contact, Evolution can help you.

New features in Evolution 2.8.0 include vertical message panes. See your email the way you want it. Search Folders are saved intelligent searches which can display groups of email according to your specified criteria. Create Search Folders to combine mail from different mail accounts into a single view, quickly view all mail from your boss (or a particular friend).

Easy note-taking with Tomboy

Tomboy is a desktop note-taking application. It is simple and easy-to-use, but with potential to help you organise the ideas and information you deal with every day. Tomboy relates notes and ideas together. Using a wiki-like linking system, organising ideas is as simple as typing a name.

Safe, easy and tabbed web browsing

Firefox 2.0 is a powerful, award-winning and standards compliant web browser. With tabbed browsing you'll be able to use one window to view all your web pages.

New features in 2.0 include inline spell check support in web forms, restore session that crashed, built in phishing detectors, better support for previewing and subscribing to web feeds, enhanced search engine management with built in OpenSearch support, and much more.

Easy editing and uploading of photos

F-spot enables you to import your photos from your hard drive, camera (including PTP type), or iPod, and supports 16 common files types, including JPEG, GIF, TIFF, RAW. Your photos can be tagged for searching and grouping. Other features include fullscreen and slideshow modes.

Editing photos in F-Spot is a breeze. Easily rotate, crop, resize, and adjust red eye and other colour settings with a few simple clicks, and versioning ensures your originals are never altered. You can also enter descriptions of photos that are saved in the actual file so other people and programmes will be able to see them, whether they use F-Spot or not.

Music and videos

Rhythmbox media player has a number of features that let you easily store, search and browse your music library and listen to internet radio. You can also view films, or videos, using Totem which features a play list, a full-screen mode, seek and volume controls and keyboard navigation.

You can download Ubuntu, or request a free CD from Canonical.

System Requirements

Ubuntu is available for PC, 64-Bit and Mac architectures. CDs require at least 256 MB of RAM. Install requires at least 2 GB of disk space.

Check it out.

Desktop Support Technician

Hello,
My name is Ken Davis, and I am a eight year experienced computer technician. I became interested in computer in 1995, while I was working with Bell Atlantic NyNex Mobile in South Carolina as cellular installer. I came to learn so much over the years working with different companies.

I now work as a Desktop Support Technician with Compucom since June of 2003 at the Pfizer Campus in Ann Arbor (which now in the closing stages). I have extensive experience providing a high level of customer service in a fast paced environment; broad technical computing skills in desktop, laptop, and peripheral support, as well as an intermediate level of knowledge of networking technologies; experience with A/V equipment such as projectors, microphones, and other components in an integrated media environment; well rounded background with Microsoft operating systems (Windows 2000 & Windows XP), business enhancement applications (Office XP & 2003, Outlook XP & 2003, Adobe products), and anti-virus/anti-malware tools (McAfee); ability to manage shifting priorities and deadlines, and the ability to prioritize by critically of situation; ability to deal directly with clients of all technical backgrounds and professional levels; excellent verbal and written skills, demonstrated ability to work as a member of a team of highly motivated and experienced individuals; honesty; integrity and commitment to maintaining high professional standards. Notable Experiences:

Computer Professional - with over 8 years of experience in the IT industry. Proven success as a desktop and laptop support specialist, data communications analyst, and support representative. Background includes user support, systems installation, repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, and problem resolutions.

Hardware – Install, troubleshot, hard drive recovery, CD-ROM drives, power supplies, CPU’s, sound cards, RAM, monitors and hp LaserJet basic printers repairs, identify system components and assemble functional systems, develop and implement preventative maintenance plans, configure data storage devices, optimize memory, use meters and lab tools, knowledge of and practice lab safety precautions.

Computer Technician - certified for IBM, Lenovo, and HP systems. Performed highest level of warranty service on IBM desktops and laptops, enabling branch to achieve IBM Warranty Service Status.

I am now is currently working toward my Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician.