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In this section we review the general process we follow when developing a web site.
1) Determine purpose of site and user specifications
Our first step is to clearly identify who your target audience is and gather as much information about them. ie. What connection speed do they connect to the Internet with? What screen size are they likey to be viewing your web site on. These and several other technical factors play an important role in determining what kinds of technologies we should or should not use in creating your site. In this stage we also clearly define the primary objectives for your site. Is your web site primarily a store that sells products or is it a brochure type presence?
2) Content assessement and development
Here we assess content you may already have in the form of brochures, databases, existing web sites, etc, and establish a laundry list of of content that needs to be collected. A content development schedule is created and tasks are assigned to individual team members.
3) Information architecture & site map
This is the most critical phase of development. The success of the site will be determined by the intelligence and extensibility of the overall architecture. Information to be published must be outlined in intuitive content categories. The key is to create a site where the user can access all of the information available with the fewest clicks possible, yet organizing the information in such a way that users are not overwhelmed by information. In this stage we outline several possible content structures including those that may not be implemented with the initial release of the site. Planning for the future will ensure that the site is flexible and expandable over time - not obsolete within a few months. The site map created at this stage outlines the kinds of information that will be found on each specific page. Starting at the home page and working through every subsequent page provides a comprehensive overview of the entire site that provides everyone with a common point of reference.
4) Interface design
Now we begin to design four to five interface design solutions and test how consistent and intuitive the navigation and overall experience will be. At this stage we also explore effective typography, colour, use of screen real estate and the overall voice and personality of the site.
5) Refinement of final design
Based on client feedback we refine the initial designs to improve its ability to communicate clearly and enhance its overall usability.
Multiple presentations are used to narrow down concepts and arrive at a final recommended solution.
6) Programming & production
After approval of design we formulate a strategy for naming conventions, compression formats and file structures. Necessary programming is completed. (HTML, PHP, CGI , mSQL, Flash etc.)
7) User testing & quality assurance
Progress of the site is monitored throughout production to track status and identify errors or missing content. Links are checked and pages verified prior to going live.
8) Promotion and maintenance program developed
Based on the needs of the site a targeted Search Engine Promotion will be implemented and a maintenance program developed to update and grow the site.
If your web site is under 25 pages we can usually complete this process in under two months.
Here is a sample timeline:
October 1st - We sign an agreement to start work on your project
October 15th - We have completed steps 1-3 and present you with a detailed site map and a list of content required.
October 17th - After making necessary modifications the site map is approved.
November 1st - We present several designs for your consideration. (during this period you have collected remaining content)
November 15th - After necessary modifications a final design has been chosen and approved.
November 31st - Programming is complete, site has been tested and is ready to go live.
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