There seems to be a lot of confusion around websites, graphics, interfaces, gamification, etc. People come up with crazy ideas like:

1. All you do is copy code.

Then, you try it. Code isn’t like a setting value that you can just plop in. With jQuery, JavaScript, and PHP, you have the tools already to create whatever you want.

2. Use the first solution that will work.

Why would you slap together the one thing that isn’t random in any way — AND — that can call you out accurately when you are?

3. It won’t work as well if it’s developed by just one person.

Did you know? Before the arrival of content management systems, web developers usually worked alone.

4. It must not have been that hard if it only took you that long to do it.

No, that means I know what I’m doing.

5. All web developers are created equal.

This one should speak for itself. If it doesn’t, you’ve never had a really good web developer.

6. You must not be doing much if you used a template.

I bet your “template” understands words and doesn’t break down from a misplaced character. To web developers, a template simply means a way to not have to keep typing redundant code.

The only true tests to see if a web developer is any good — Can they implement what you want? Can they envision a whole new approach that maximizes technology as a tool and not a prison?