The Website Design and Implementation Processes

Thoughtful website requirements analysis is a logical process the benefits to which are inevitably seen during the project roll out. A general rule of thumb commonly used is as follows, every change or revision made during the Web Design and Implementation stages will cost 1 unit, say $100, and suppose that change wasn’t planned either so several changes are made for the same original change… multiply that by the number of unique changes and, well, you get the idea.  It is extremely important, therefore, to ask as many questions as possible and discuss the project in detail during the early stages. Proper design and planning might take a while, however, many successful previous projects have proven that this approach results in a shorter time to delivery and most cost effective execution. 

Primary stages of the development process

Stage 1. First Meeting

The initial meeting between the client and Account Manager/Consultant, designed to allow both parties to become accustomed to each others style and requirements. 

Stage 2. Website Specification and Requirements Analysis.

The account manager will document customer requirements in a concise way so as to effectively relay them to the design team.  The design team will help determine scope and associated cost. At this stage the development schedule and budget are determined.

Stage 3. Proposal Submission

The proposal estimate or quote, created in Stage 2, is presented to the client for approval. Revisions may be necessary and should be agreed upon by both parties.   

Stage 4. Development

The website is designed and developed according to agreed upon customer requirements and scope.  Stages are tracked and managed by a project manager ensuring timeline and project component completion.         

Stage 5. Draft Submission

The first draft of the website is presented to the customer for review.  Any necessary changes are recorded and returned to the design/development for implementation.    

Stage 6. Website Completion and Final Submission For Acceptance

The website is now ready for delivery. The customer tests the site thoroughly for requirements completion and usability.

Stage 7. Product Delivery

The website is pushed to the hosting center and all associated services (email, marketing, etc) are engaged.