Summary
Webmaster roles
Create sites
The webmaster thinks about the general architecture of the site, its graphic charter and the articulation of content. He then advises the team on the technological choices to be made:
- equipment;
- the hosting solution;
- or the software to use.
Provide visibility
When the site is put online, the webmaster is responsible for referencing the site, but also for its security. He also wants to acquire traffic and retain the Internet user. Thus he analyzes the audience and remains attentive to requests and remarks. He constantly develops improvements, and animates the site via :
- the forums ;
- comments ;
- organizing games…
Refresh
The webmaster is also in charge of the editorial activity. He can write newsletters and update content. In any case, he is the guarantor of the publications. It integrates content on the web platform to make it accessible. In recent years, it is not uncommon for the webmaster to manage the accounts of community sites in parallel.
Webmaster working conditions
In a computer environment
When he is not in a meeting, the webmaster sits at his desk in front of a screen. He knows very well:
- different computing environments;
- operating systems and networks;
- programming languages;
- softwares…
Different possible employers
- in agencies: he officiates for several client companies;
- in business: it manages the site created and enriches the sections of the site.
Team work
The webmaster coordinates many stakeholders:
- the technical director and the development team for the technological aspect;
- the site host;
- graphic designers;
- the artistic director;
- the editorial manager for graphic and editorial activities;
- the project manager;
- customers…
How much does a webmaster earn?
The beginner webmaster earns around €2,000 gross per month. With experience, his salary can reach up to €3,200.
Training to become a webmaster
Bac + 2
Short courses allow you to go to university, or try your luck in the business world:
- BTS communication and graphic industries, studies and graphic design option;
- BTS visual communication, multimedia option;
- the computer science DUT, computer engineering option or digital imaging option;
- the DUT services and communication networks.
At University
University training in multimedia is also appreciated:
- the professional multimedia license (Clermont-Ferrand II);
- the virtual image arts and technologies master (Paris VIII);
- professional licenses “multimedia creation”, “communication activities and techniques”;
- professional masters in multimedia engineering, computer science, multimedia-internet networks.
Schools
The webmaster can also come from a school specializing in multimedia, such as the International Institute of Multimedia in Paris or Sup-Info-Com in Valenciennes.
Art schools also offer specialized masters.
Qualifications needed to become a webmaster
To be polyvalent
The tasks of the webmaster are diverse and varied. He must take into account the complaints of all stakeholders with whom he is in contact. Organization and responsibility are the key words of the profession.
Technical knowledge
The technical skills of the webmaster are also numerous. He is comfortable with:
- computing ;
- Internet ;
- softwares ;
- the languages…
Writing skills
The webmaster is required to write texts or integrate those of journalists. He is also in contact with the auditors. For a quality site, the webmaster must therefore demonstrate a clear and limpid pen. His spirit of synthesis is also appreciated.
Content updated on 05/06/2012