What to do...

[Hickory]

Hey guys, I need some suggestions here. I know html, css, and basic php, but thats not really enough these days for advanced webdesign.

I dont know what I should learn next, to really get serious about my designs, implementating features etc. I guess I could learn more PHP, MySQL maybe? I want to be able to program and implement member areas, maintain databases etc.

Next, I have quite a few ideas that I want to start, and that I think will work really well. Unfortunitly, I just either dont know where to start, or I dont have the knowledge of what I need to do (or learn to do) to create these ideas. I dont know what I'm asking, perhaps just for advice on where you start with your creations, and how to progress through them.

Thanks
Hickory

 

[monty]

Since you already have some basic skills, I would start something up and work your way through it. You will advance on the way.

Best way to go about it, would be looking at several sites similar to the one you're working on and analyse the code and structure of the website, basicly just try to find out as much as you can and think about how this knowledge could work for you own project.

When it comes to the question "what should I learn next", it really depends on what you're after. IMO, all-round developers are a dying race with all new technologies and techniques out there. I would specialize in a certain area of web developement, maybe get more advanced on the server site (by learning more PHP/MySQL or other server site scripting methods) or maybe get you're feet wet in JavaScript and maybe some Ajax. Or you just start out by getting some of everything and probably at one point you will know which direction to go in.

However, if I were you I would definetly learn more PHP and MySQL and build some sites using this platform, probably along the way you will pick up some more CSS and client-site scripting.

best of luck!

-monty

 

[LeetPCUser]

I would definately learn PHP and MySQL. With those two languages you can create some pretty advanced websites. There are some very good books out there that implement and teach both. I would recommend trying to find one and reading up on it.

 

[dismaldonkey]

I would agree with PHP and MySQL, but also why not try a different angle? Get hold of a copy of Photoshop and start playing aound with graphic design. Coding may make the site work nicely, but good graphical design makes it pleasing to the visitors eye.