Q: What can I expect during the Website Design & Development Process?
There is a series of steps set up to help the process flow smoothly. Here is the process explained in general terms.
Phase I. Project Evaluation
Ceed meets with the Client team to evaluate and discuss the project goals in detail in order to gain a better understanding of the project’s redesign / design objectives. This meeting most frequently occurs by telephone. Usually there are 2-3 telephone discussions at the project outset, ranging from 25 to 45 minutes, although a meeting may occasionally run longer. If the Client is in the Chicago area, this meeting may happen in person.
Phase II: Design Planning
Step 1: Planning
Ceed creates a series of documents that outline the strategy for the project. These documents are the outcome of discussions with the client, plus necessary research. Types of research conducted typically includes large dataset keyword research and competitive research.
Step 2: Client Review
The documents are presented to the Client for review and comment.
Phase III: Web Copywriting (optional)
Step 1: Writing – Ceed prepares a rough outline of the copy, or full text, as indicated by the contract. This outline incorporates the strategic findings discerned in the prior phases.
Step 2: Client Review – The Client proofs the content, or perhaps now writes the content (i.e. text, possibly with some page-based images include) based on the strategic outline provided, depending on the terms of the contract.
Phase IV: Web Design Development
Step 1: Design Development
Ceed presents design ‘comps’ to the client via the Web for review:
- The home page design
- One ‘drill-down’ page design to demonstrate navigation flow
- Other special case pages as needed and as indicated by the scope of the project
Step 2: Client Review
The Client reviews these designs and request edits if desired. Your approval of the work is requested, then we proceed to Phase V.
Phase V: Website Production
On receipt of all final proofed content from the Client (i.e. site texts, graphics, photos, service PDFs if desired and so forth) (or we can retrieve this directly from the existing site where available); and following the Client’s final approval of the design comps in Phase IV, Step 2, actual production of the site will begin.
Step 1: Develop the Website
Using the approved design comps and page content, build out each page of the site and cross-platform test using a PC and Mac and multiple browsers.
Step 2: Client Review
The Client has the opportunity to review the new site before it is launched in order to ensure design and editorial accuracy in accordance with the project specifications developed in the prior phases. The Client will have the opportunity to review and approve requested revisions on an iterative basis within the guidelines set in this contract, until the Client is satisfied with the presentation of work.
Any outstanding balances will come due (on 50/50 type contracts) following satisfactory completion, but prior to launch.
Following the Client’s final review and final sign-off, Ceed will launch the new Web site.
