[bens1901]

I have been a web programmer for about 4 years now. I develop dynamic web pages (ASP, JSP, PSP) that are driven by databases (SQL Server, Oracle, Sybase). My role is to meet with the Client to determine requirements, design the web application, program the thing, test it, then support it when it’s in Production.

Recently, an opportunity came my way to be a Web Master. I will learn in the near future what the job really requires, but it sounds like I’ll have a team of web programmers. I’ll bet the contact between the Clients who speak English, and the programmers who speak technical jargon. Then again, there is the chance that it may entail me programming and maintaining pages.

Here’s my question: Would becoming a Web Master be a step up or down the corporate ladder? I will be paid the same amount, so monetary issues don’t play a part in the decision.

Thanks for any advice or opinions.

[SPiNdustrious]

If you're currently a web programmer and becoming a web master would put web programmers under your control, that certainly seems like a step up the ladder...

You would also be working directly with clients. That's an important responsibility. You can't have any clown who knows how it all works handling such an important relationship.

Just my two cents...

Peter

[gskinner]

Peter,

It really depends on the company's view of what a webmaster is, but usually it would be more of a step sideways onto another ladder.

I typically recommend that my clients use a marketing/PR person with reasonable familiarity with the internet to be the webmaster for their site. A webmaster should be just that - the master of everything that goes onto a site. They should ultimately be responsible for the design, content and functionality of the site. The only real technical knowledge needed is an understanding what can or can't be done online, a good grasp of current web trends, and the ability to communicate and delegate changes to the appropriate technical person.

So if you like coding, and aren't really into design, branding or public relations, I'd advise against taking the position. If you want to try your hand at something different, and don't mind being that "idiot marketing guy" to a bunch of web developers, go for it.

Cheers,
Grant Skinner.

[beb]

One point, never ever become a webmaster for any education institution ever!

My current situation is echoed across the entire state because of a lack of funding, technical talent, admistrative understanding/common sense, inadaquate resources and of course basic salary.

I am the webmaster for an multi-campus education institution. I program the webpages that go on a webserver that was purchased by another department. (Currently, I'm trying to move it to a G4 so I don't have to burn a cdrw every time I make a damn webpage change)

I take all photos, shoot and edit all videos (from the all important orientation video to commercial spots) and now DVDs, develop all forms/applications, update all schedules, hand draw and update all maps in illustrator, design logos, as well as some minor print work, and deal with whatever other project that somebody needs. I wish I had a staff, I wish I had cash to spend on two xServes.

I wouldn't mind it so much if I got paid more than about twenty grand a year to do it all. I think I'm being exploited far beyond the point of belief.

[bluedog]

In response to the original poster,

Webmaster will entail more of a managerial and direction type role. If you love the coding and technological understanding then stick with what you love. If you would like to take on a new challenge of dealing with people (a never-ending task) and enjoy the aspects of pleasing a customer through 'fullfillment' of their requests go with the new job. If the completion of a project through coding and logic skills is a driving force for why you go in to work each day then the answer would be obvious.

Its really a matter of your personality and what you'd like to do. The other posters were right that it would be an across move at this point if you don't receive a pay increase.


----
beb,

You and your talents would best be served where you will receive adequate compensation and recognition for your work. I suggest looking for a company preferrably smaller than 100 employees for work.

I've worked for large corporations where the situation is the same as what you describe. Just because one person has the *ability* to do all those things doesn't mean they can do them all in a 40hr/wk schedule (or that one would *want* to do that).

I had a time working for a small marketing company where my talents were *much* more appreciated and there were other talented people to share the responsibilities. My compensation was good, but when their business declined so did my job. I made it past three cuts before our company went from 22 down to 10.

Now I work for a company of about 25, I get to do more than before with appreciation. Their prospects are up; we received a bonus for a record year! In this economic climate I am happy to be a part of a company profiting during these hard times.

You and your new employer will be thrilled to do what you like to do and not be overburdened. If you have the chance I suggest looking for work elsewhere. I know that's easier said than done.

Good luck!

Originally posted by beb:
One point, never ever become a webmaster for any education institution ever!

My current situation is echoed across the entire state because of a lack of funding, technical talent, admistrative understanding/common sense, inadaquate resources and of course basic salary.

I am the webmaster for an multi-campus education institution. I program the webpages that go on a webserver that was purchased by another department. (Currently, I'm trying to move it to a G4 so I don't have to burn a cdrw every time I make a damn webpage change)

I take all photos, shoot and edit all videos (from the all important orientation video to commercial spots) and now DVDs, develop all forms/applications, update all schedules, hand draw and update all maps in illustrator, design logos, as well as some minor print work, and deal with whatever other project that somebody needs. I wish I had a staff, I wish I had cash to spend on two xServes.

I wouldn't mind it so much if I got paid more than about twenty grand a year to do it all. I think I'm being exploited far beyond the point of belief.