Journal #1

 Robbins, J. (2012). Learning web design: A beginner's guide to HTML, CSS, Javascript, and web graphics (4th ed., pp. 3-46). Sebastopol, CA: O'Reilly. 

Within these first three chapters of Learning web design, readers are able to get a glimpse into the life of web designers and developers across the world. Robbins discusses not only the history of the Internet and how websites are put together (in layman's terms), but also the various hats a web designer may wear throughout their career. It's both interesting, and reassuring, that it is understood that not all web designers/developers are expected to know every facet of creating a website. As someone who has worked as a web developer, I always felt like I needed to be a "full-stack" developer to be successful and while it is beneficial to know multiple languages, it is also important to be specialized and have a specific trade.

 Frost, B. (2012, March 29). This is the web. Retrieved October 4, 2015.  

I have to say, I am in love with Brad Frost's image of "This Will be the Web." Robbins' book was written in 2012, the same year Frost posted this image to his blog. That was only three years ago. And within that span of time, the web has become accessible in all the devices on that image. Cars with WiFi; watches with WiFi; fridges with WiFi?! The web has grown so exponentially that when someone says they don't have a computer at home or smartphone or rarely use the internet, we look at them like they're from another planet.

These first few chapters show us that the web is growing and so are the means in which people are accessing information. We have to not only learn how to design and code, but grow to accommodate new technologies every day.

Q. 1 | How are we, as designers and developers, supposed to stay up-to-date with constantly evolving technology in a way that our sites stay optimal looking?

It is important that you stay apprised of new technology if you are in the web designer industry. Robbins' mentions "progressive enhancement," so that you still are able to provide the basic information to your viewers, but when new technology is introduced, you should find a way to test your site to make sure it is meeting that standard. Signing up for newsletters like Smashing Magazine or visiting the A List Apart blog allows designers to hear what may be coming around the bend. Going to various conferences or participating in forums/webinars could be included in your job responsibilities. You don't necessarily need to have the latest iPhone, but knowing that different technology is out there will make you more aware. Another aspect you could utilize is Google Analytics. You, of course, want your site to work it's best on all of your viewers' platforms, but sometimes that isn't feasible. By having Google Analytics (or other metric systems), designers/developers can determine what browsers and devices their viewers are using. If only 2 people out of 2,000 are using Internet Explorer 7, then you shouldn't beat your head against a wall trying to get something to work. On the flip side though, if 90% of your audience is accessing your site in a mobile manner, maybe take a look to make sure they're able to get what they need.

Q. 2 | There is a higher amount of people becoming hobbyist web designers as the web gets more integrated in everyday life; how is/will this effecting those in the professional web design industry?

I think a good comparison of this idea would be professional chefs and home chefs. Just recently I watched an episode of Food Network's Chopped in which the competitors were all amateur chefs. They faced the exact same challenges as the professional chefs would whilst on the show (crazy ingredients and very limited time restraints), but were expected to perform to somewhat the same caliber. These chefs gave their all and used whatever knowledge they had to create amazing meals for the judges. The same goes for hobbyist web designers, I'd say. Hobbyist designers learn as they go and do the best they can for someone who may not be professionally trained. Those who have a piece of paper saying they are a "master" of web design have an advantage in that they have dedicated time (and money) to crafting their trade. They have been in classes and have been given a seal of approval for industry professionals to hire them. Hobbyist designers can elevate their rank and get that piece of paper or gain enough experience where they are equivalent to a professional web designer. This isn't to say a professional designer is better than a hobbyist designer. In some cases, hobbyist designers are not limited by the rules professional designers may have learned and may be more apt to try out different ideas and have a more creative streak. Yet to be hired as a web designer, you almost always need that piece of paper. One good way to look at the ever growing number of web designers (both hobbyist and professional) is that there are more people to come up with creative ways to deliver information to viewers. More people to develop different platforms and create a web greater than Peter Parker could ever imagine.