Phase 1: Site Definition

1.1 Client Survey

We utilize a standardized web marketing audit questionnaire. The questionnaire is distributed to all key decision makers within the company. Usually, feedback from more than one member of the client team is beneficial and gives a broader scope and feel for the project. It also encourages them to think through the project in a different way. Feedback within a short time frame is encouraged.

1.2 Creative Brief

Our creative brief can take many forms. It can be a one page overview of the project or it can be a 20+ page report. Overall, our creative brief typically determines the goals of the site, including look and feel and marketing strategy. The detail depends on the scope of the project and the expectations of each individual client.

1.3 Research, Assessment & Design Audit

Based on creative brief feedback we do the necessary research to determine needed usability features and layout options. Our process includes occasional usability testing on various sites that the client refers to us as “sites they like”, and reporting based on the findings.

1.4 Site Architecture & Content

We consider client supplied content preferences and create a site architecture map to visually demonstrate how the site content and structure will be organized. This also allows us to determine what will be needed regarding copywriting and photography to complete other phases of the project.

1.5 Check off List

At this point a check off list is delivered to the client containing needed materials, content, photography, etc. to complete the project in a timely manner.

Phase 2: Site Structure Development

2.1 Prototype Design

With the site map architecture firmly in place we are now able to develop a prototype design. We’ll design a proposed homepage and 2nd level internal page that define the "look and feel" for the entire site. These designs will be static graphic representations of the final site might look like. They will not include any working html code, animation, or interactivity.

2.2 Prototype Refinement

Once the prototype designs have been reviewed by the client feedback is taken into account and the designs are reworked until client satisfaction is acquired.

Phase 3: Site Production/Staging

3.1 Content Collection

Receiving content from clients on a schedule is perhaps the most difficult and least-predictable part of any web project. Most clients often have an unrealistic view of what they “already have ready to go” and also what items they need to create.

To combat this necessary evil we will create a content schedule plan. We’ll begin by breaking down content into main sections, and put dates to the delivery of these sections. By thinking about what content already exists, what needs to be created, and what needs to be edited, we’ll be able to give each client a detailed route of action to help us complete the project. If there is a need for photography, illustration, or copy writing assistance our team will note within the schedule what sections they will be assisting the client with.

3.2 Final Prototype Build-Out

Upon approval of the site prototype design and revisions our team will program the site in html. It’s at this point that the site truly starts to come to life.

3.3 Interaction Development

Once the site has been coded in html we’ll add any flash animation, dynamic/database functionality, and user experience features.

3.4 Content Placement

At this point all the content should be in house and the content schedule should be complete. All content is then plugged into the appropriate areas of the site.

Phase 4: Beta Launch & Testing

4.1 Beta Review

With all coding, database integration, animation, and content in place it’s time to do further usability testing. The site will be moved to its final home, but still be invisible to normal online viewers. The team will test every page of the site in multiple browsers and on multiple computer operating systems. At this time the client will also be able to review the site in its entirety and will have ample time to request revisions, additions, or deletions.

4.2 Beta Revision

After testing is complete any known issues or bugs will be fixed and client revisions will be completed.

4.3 Backend/Database Testing

If the site uses a database and dynamic functionality the backend of the site will be ran through multiple test runs and will be assessed.

4.4 Final Beta Refinement

After the backend/database testing is complete known issues or bugs will be fixed and tested again until they pass every test with complete success.

Phase 5: Publishing/Marketing/Launch

5.1 Website Publishing to Final Server

Finally the site goes live for all internet users to see.

5.2 Search Engine Seeding

The site will be submitted to numerous search engines for seeding purposes. This will allow web spiders to crawl your site quicker.

5.3 Maintenance Scheduling

Based on the project details the client may or may not opt to have us maintain the site on a regular basis. If this option is within the project scope a detailed schedule of maintenance and updates will be completed.

5.4 Continuous Marketing/Promotion