Web Design Consultation
Our Web Design and Development Process
Below is an outline of the process that Studio Interactive uses for nearly all custom designed and developed web sites. Every web design and development should use a process similar to the one below to build web sites. We have found that this process works for us and our clients. Wither you decide to use Studio Interactive or any other web design and development company, this outline will give you a better understanding of the web design process.
1. Internet Strategy Phase
This is the beginning phase of every web design project we do. Planning and Strategy is key to creating a successful website.
Initial Consultation/Discovery Stage
Our initial consultation is one of the most crucial stages of our process. This is the stage where we meet with the client, go over what they want and need in a website, give suggestions as to how this can be done, figure out their budget, discuss how we develop sites, and ask necessary questions to make sure we understand the client’s needs. We also go over our web design questionnaire that outlines a lot of important questions that help us determine how the web site will be built, what technology to use, and how to go about completing the project. After this initial consultation we are able to put together a proper quote and put together an outline of everything that will be in the site for the client to review.
Wire frame structure and technology development
In this stage, we put together all of the pages we believe the client wants/needs based on our initial meeting. List out all the technology necessary and put together a plan of action on how the site will be designed and developed. We then go over our ideas with our client to make sure that it meets their needs.
Site Structure Stage
One of the most important parts of a web site is how the navigation is made and how it works. Is it easy for the client’s customers to navigate? Can they find the information they need easily and quickly? Can they find answers to questions they may have? We put together the structure for the site so that it’s easy to navigate, SEO friendly, and has all of the sections that the client wants and/or needs. We put together a site map and description of each page and what it’s for, review with the client and then we are able to move forward with the web design and development process.
2. Web Design Phase
Comp Design Phase
During the initial consultation we find out what types of designs the client likes and what can work for their company. We have the client list out sites they like and what they like about them. We also have them list their competition and what they like/don’t like about their sites. With this information we start the design phase. During this stage, we design the front page and sub pages of the site. We then go over the design with our client.
Design review and revision stage
Once we have designed the comp, we present it to the client. We show them each of the sections and how they will work. Find out if there are any missing elements. If there are any revisions to be made, we make them, the present the updates to the client for approval. Once the design is approved by the client we move on to the next stage in the process. The client must sign off on the approval of these pages in order to move forward with their project.
CSS Coding Stage
After the design is approved by the client it’s time for us to turn that design into a web ready format. We code out the index and sub pages in CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) to be incorporate them into the system we use for their project. We make sure that we use SEO terms in naming images in the actual site design to help with SEO rankings.
3. Content Development
Content Development Stage
Content development is important for any site. While the client usually provides us with the content for their site, we always review the site and make sure that it reads well, is web friendly, and will help them accomplish the goals set in our initial consultation. If the client wishes for us to write the content for their site, we then do our research, and come up with content that is appropriate for each page of the site.
Content Review and Revision Stage
Once we have written the content for the client, we go over it with them. Let them read the content and make revisions as necessary. Once the content is approved, we have the client sign off before we insert the content into their web site.
4. Web Development Phase
Site Set Up
During this step, we ensure that everything is set up properly so that we can start working on your site. While we use a testing server to build sites for our clients, we still need to make sure that the client’s server is ready for us when we move the site over prior to launch.
This step includes:
- Setup of hosting and domain registration.
- Set up of any open source applications.
- Applying site structure.
- Setting up of Blog
- Setting up of eCommerce Systems
- Setting up SSL
Site Development Stage
Once we have completed the CSS coding for the site, we take the template and incorporate it into the system we use for their project. We set up the system; add all of the pages from our site structure phase.
Interactive Programming
For most web sites we design, we try to incorporate interactive elements to make the site more appealing for viewers of the website. During this phase we code out any custom animations, roll over images, scrolling images, flash elements, Flash headers, and any other interactive elements.
Add on applications
If you decided to add any extra elements to your site such as a photo gallery, forums, contact forms, surveys, newsletter systems, iTunes podcasting, and more, this is done during this step.
Custom Programming / Database Development
Not every pre-made application is great for every web site. During this phase we code out any necessary applications tailored to the needs of our clients. This would include modify a pre-existing application or writing one specifically for your site. We also design and develop the databases required for these applications or modifications.
5. Testing and Training Phase
Internal Testing Stage
Once your site is set up and ready to go, it’s time for testing. We test every link, read every page, make sure the site works and is ready to show the client. We test all applications, forums, ect. Once we feel that the site is ready to go, we then present the site to the client for review.
Client Testing/Pre Launch Stage
Once we have completed testing on our end, we then go over the site with the client. We physically click through every page, make sure all links and applications work, and show them how the navigation and sales process flows. We then let the client go over the site themselves and see if they find any problems. We usually give them 24 hours for this process unless it’s a more complicated site, in which we give them 72 hours to complete this stage.
Client Approval and Sign Off
Once the site is finished, tested, and the client approves, we meet with them, and have them sign a document saying that the site is finished and we have completed all work on the site as stated in our proposal/contract. We also discuss with them what it was like working with us so we can improve any areas necessary for future work. We are always working on improving our business.
Client Training Stage
Once everything is finished on the site and we are ready for the client to start learning how to use the system, we begin this phase. Depending on the system used for the project, this phase may take 1-20 hours. We go over how to edit pages, add page, add blog posts, and anything the client may need to use. We offer phone support, written tutorials, and in person training for our clients.