The Design Process
Custom Website Solution
The goal is to make sure that all of my clients have beautiful, professional, easy-to-use, full solution websites. Part of achieving that goal involves a simple and straightforward process. As a sfpixel client you will receive:
- Clear guidance from me as we go through each step of the process.
- Screenshots and directions clearly explaining answers to your questions.
- A response to your email, text or phone calls within 24-48 hours excluding weekends, holidays and vacations.
- Out-of-the-box solutions that take your project to the next level.
Here is what it’s like to work with me…
Planning
Our first meetup, and the most important step since everything discussed here will influence the end result. I get a bird’s eye view of what your project is about, your target audience, your expectations, timelines and answer any questions we have for one another. I research your industry. I’ll also review your content and processes. Then we move on to create buyer personas and do any required user testing on your current setup.
Sitemap
Creating the sitemap ensures that all key pages in the site, their relationship to each other and overall navigation of the site is structured. You’ll see how content and features discussed earlier will interrelate. I’ll share this sitemap with you to get feedback. Example of a sitemap.
Prototype
Based on the approved sitemap, I’ll create a working prototype that allows you to see the site in action. A prototype details how information flows, where contents will go, and what content is needed as we enter the design phase. Once the prototype is approved, you start working on content and I start working on the design. I can assist with content creation as well like writing an interesting bio for the about us page or helping you craft your mission statement, or drafting your privacy policy & terms of use. Example of a prototype.
Design
Once the blueprint for the site has been defined through the creation of the sitemap and prototypes, I start creating a visual style. Color schemes, logos, rich media, art work, typography are all done at this stage, tailored to the brand of your business.
Content
I’ll review the content you created and give any feedback. If you’d like, I can create content for you based on your business, target audience and industry. Once final content and images are edited, proofed and approved, I’ll move to the Development phase.
Development
Here I start building framework, database to store all your files, code pages, build any custom functionality needed. Site performance is tweaked, security measures are put in place, social media integration is enabled. Content is housed and we move on to Testing.
Testing
Here I make sure everything is working and we haven’t missed anything visually or functionally. Site is tested on multiple browsers and devices to see if anything breaks. Final tests focus on user experience, performance and security, as we get ready for launch.
Delivery
The moment we’ve all been waiting for. I’ll switch on the live server, and your website will be accessible to the world. Bring out the Champagne!
Maintenance
Our relationship has just begun. As you promote your website and start getting new business, I’ll be by your side to support your website, marketing and graphic needs. You can chose one of my support plans for ongoing support. I’ll check-in to make sure everything is running smoothly.
