Design Process
Wondering how it all works? Here's a breakdown of the design process:
- Initial Consultation -- Our initial meeting is free and without obligation, and can take place at your office or over the phone. This is where we get to know one another and I have the opportunity to learn about your business and your website requirements. I'll listen to your needs and expectations, answer your questions, and suggest services and features that will help you meet your business goals.
- Design Questionnaire -- Now that we've had a chance to talk, I'll email you a design questionnaire. Completing this form takes just a few minutes and will assist me in preparing a detailed and accurate proposal for you. Some typical questions include: What pages or sections do you have planned for your site? What features would you like to include? List a few examples of other sites you admire so I can get a sense of your preferred style.
- Proposal and Estimate -- After reviewing your questionnaire, I'll have a proposal and estimate for you within a week.
- Contract Agreement -- Once you decide to hire me to develop your website, I'll prepare a standard contract including detailed specifications of the planned site. 50% of the estimated cost is due upon signing.
- Gathering Content -- I can begin work quickly once I receive your text, photos, logo and other website content. Everything should be submitted in electronic form, either on disk or via email. Scanning services are available for printed items you need to send through the mail. At this point I'll also be registering your domain and setting up hosting and email accounts (if applicable).
- Design Prototype -- I'll deliver the first draft of the design for your review. The design mock-up is based on the needs and preferences identified in our consultations and in your design survey. Your feedback at this stage is very important and should involve both the organization of the site as well as its look and feel. I'll work with you to fine-tune the mock-up; usually one or two rounds of revisions will bring the design to its final form.
- Site Development -- Once you've approved the design, I'll begin building the rest of the site. I'll code your site in accordance with web standards and I'll test it in multiple web browsers and on multiple screen resolutions to be sure it's accessible to all of your visitors. Once we're both satisfied and the site is finalized, the remaining balance is due.
- Launch -- Your site is uploaded to the web host and goes live to the world!