Launch A Successful Site By Following These Steps

I just recently complied a list of all the stages I go through to launch a successful web site. I do not think every designer provides this for their clients, but here is my process from start to finish.

• Pre-production. Establish expectations.
  • A project site is created using Basecamp. This will be the communication center for the entire project.
  • Client to upload all assets need to design (logo, colors, sample flyer’s or any printed material that conveys your “brand”)
  • Client to provide all log-in information for the existing site (FTP, email, domain registration)
  • Designer to create a content inventory of existing site. Client to approve.
  • Designer to propose a schedule. Client to approve.
• Planning. Determine the objectives, functionality and goals of the new site.
  • Designer will help client determine the content for the site and identify gaps where existing content does not meet requirements.
  • Designer to list Requirements. Client to approve.
  • Designer will deliver a site map that lists content and functions as listed in Requirements. Client to approve.
• Design. Visually represent the objectives and goals established during Planning.
  • Designer to produce three composite designs. Client to provide feedback until a final design is determined.
  • Designer to create HTML page. Tested in browsers (FireFox 1.5+ and Internet Explorer 6+). Client to approve.
• Development. Implement the design.
  • Designer to activate content management system (CMS).
  • Client to deliver all content.
  • Designer to apply design to all pages and enable functionality as outlined in Requirements.
  • Designer to work with Client to upload all content into the CMS.
  • Designer to add Google Analytics (free) to all pages.
• Deployment. Pushing the site live.
  • Client to do quality assurance testing and provide Designer with bug list.
  • Designer to fix all bugs.
  • Client sign off on final site. Designer deploys site.
• Monitoring. Determine if site is meeting objectives and goals.
  • Designer will monitor site using Google Analytics and other tools. Designer will issue monthly “reports” on site performance for six months.
  • Designer to fix all “in-scope” bugs (within 24 hours if possible) for six months (does not apply to Client created content).
  • Designer to work with Client to create work flow and in-house assignments to maintain content quality.
  • Designer to train Client in using CMS.

1 comments | Apr 28, 02:52 | by Tim Bednar tips web-design

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