Before starting my work experience at Versants in Oxford, I thought I had a decent idea of how web development worked: build some pages, write some code, and voilà, website. Easy, right? Spoiler: it’s not. But it is fascinating.

I came in hoping to get a better understanding of how a web project moves from idea to reality. What I got was a crash course in tools, teamwork, and all the behind-the-scenes work that makes a website actually function.

In my first few days, I was introduced to the team’s workflow and the digital toolbox they rely on. Make.com, Airtable (twice, because yes, it really is that central), ChatGPT custom GPTs, Drouble, Jira, Paymo, Float, you name it. At first, it felt like a lot. But once I saw how each one fits into a larger system, it all started to click.

More importantly, I got to work on real things, not just watch from the sidelines. I helped build a few custom GPTs which showed me how AI tools are actually being used in production, not just in theory. I also helped respond to some Helpdesk queries alongside a developer giving me a taste of what supporting live websites really involves. Yes, things break, and yes, you do have to fix them fast. One of my proudest contributions was helping with design updates on the very website you’re reading this blog post on. There is nothing quite like seeing your work live on a public site.

I also had the chance to participate in team meetings where communication was front and center. It is clear that being able to share ideas, ask questions, and coordinate with others is just as important as the technical work itself. Web development is not a solo gig, it is a team sport.

What surprised me most was not just the tools or the tech, it was the people. Watching designers, developers, project managers, and strategists collaborate was honestly the best part. Everything is connected and good communication keeps the whole machine running smoothly.

This experience did not just teach me how websites get built. It showed me how teams build together. While I have still got a lot to learn, I am walking away with a clearer understanding of how the digital world gets made and a lot more respect for the people who make it happen.

By Leon Conway