How It Works
A Brief Note About Communication
Communication makes the web design world go 'round. Without a communication strategy, we won't get very far. Don't worry - I've already created an effective strategy, fine-tuned over time and dozens of web projects.
Most of the communication that occurs throughout the design process is accomplished through email, instant messenger, and the client lounge. This has proven to be most efficient, especially because we will be referencing URL's and sending files back and forth. However, I generally like to start the process off with a phone call so that we can get to know each other.
I will always be open and honest with you. I don't want there to be a time when you aren't quite sure what's going on with your website - Through the client lounge, you'll receive daily updates while your website is in development.
The Process
Planning & Needs Evaluation
Phase 1
This is by far the most important step of the process. It all starts with a comprehensive needs evaluation. This is your website, and I want to know your ideas, preferences, and goals.
But not just you! I also want to know about your audience, who they are, what they like, and most importantly, what you want them to do! Buy your stuff? Make an appointment? Visit the physical store? Your website should provide a prime space for your goals and your visitor's goals to intertwine!
The needs evaluaton may be done on the phone, on the IM, or you can fill out a form and email it to me - whatever works best for you and your schedule.
Design
Phase 2
I take all of the information you provided and create a layout and design. Because the planning phase is so thorough, the website design is usually very close on the first mockup. At this point, you'll let me know if there's any changes you'd like to make. Once the mockup is approved, we continue to the development phase.
At this point I will require at least part of your website content. If you need help developing your website content, I can help with that too - just let me know in your price quote form.
Development & Testing
Phase 3
Now you get to sit back and watch the website form before your eyes. At this point, I am hard at work converting the approved mockup design into hand-coded high quality xhtml and css. I'll also be testing your website in a variety of browsers. During development, you will receive daily updates.
Now it's time for you to send all of the content that you would like to appear in the website at the initial launch.
Launch!
Phase 4
Yes! Launch day is exciting for everybody. At this point, you're usually busy telling your family and friends about your cool new website. If you've chosen a dynamic website with content management, you may have opted to schedule a training session to use your new website tools and we would do that during this phase too. I've already done the testing, but if you experience any issues with your website after going live I'll take care of it right away.
Ongoing Support & Maintenance
Phase 5
Whether you'd like me to maintain your website for you, or you're ready to expand, or even if you just miss me - You can always get in touch with me through the client lounge, or, of course, email.
