Our goal is to provide the best possible service to our customers. Our Web Design process was specifically designed as an efficient means of creating a professional web presence based on customer goals and expectations. Our award winning designs are a testament to this relentless pursuit of excellence.
The following is a step by step description of the web development process.
Phase 1 – Planning
Client Brief / Survey
The client brief is a compilation of the project goals. Data is compiled from the session with the aid of a questionnaire. This questionnaire covers every aspect of the project.
Site-Map
The site-map is basically a text version of the planned web site. The site-map is formatted in point form using “upper case” text to indicate section items in the navigation, and “bracketed” text to indicated hyperlinks. The site-map is created in a general text file format for compatibility, and is dated and printed for filing. The site-map is sent to the client(s) for revisions and the final “sign-off”. Both parties confirm the final version of the proposed site-map.
Story Boards (large sites) or Wireframes (smaller sites)
The story boards in conjunction with the site-map, is an effective way to display the structure of the web site. The structure of the web site is sketched out on A4 size sheets. The A4 sized story boards display the rough layout of the design, the content, and how the navigation is arranged. Each page shows the file name, and how it links to other pages. A space for notes is available at the bottom of each page. A PDF file is created and sent to the client(s) for revisions and the final “sign-off”. Both parties confirm the final version of the proposed story boards.
Final Revisions
The client is given a chance to make final revisions (without effecting the timeline) to the planning phase. Please note that once this is signed off, any changes may affect the timeline and also may incur added costs.
Phase 2 – Development
Design Layout
The design layout is a visual concept phase. An Adobe Photoshop file is created showing the layout, colour scheme and the content design. A PDF file is generated from this file and sent to the client(s) for revisions and the final “sign-off”. Both parties confirm the final version of the proposed design layout.
Visual Design
We will work closely with you to determine the “look & feel” of your web site. Our web designers have extensive experience in graphic and industrial design. We use industry standard graphics software to create and optimize our web graphics. We will work with you to create a professional looking, user friendly, and browser compatible web interface.
Once the design goals are established, our people will create a layout based on that information. We send our layouts in PDF format or using our online proofing tool so your team can critique the design and provide feedback. This stage enables us to work closely with you so that we can achieve the desired results quickly.
Coding
After the site map and visual design is established and “checked”, we create the pages and forms using professional web design tools. We organize all our content into separate directories and use naming conventions to identify files. We publish a click through prototype that you can test drive online.
Site Optimization
All graphics and content used on your site are optimized for the web.
Search Optimization (SEO)
The primary page is optimized with key words in the following methods
- Optimized Title
- Optimized Meta Data
- Optimized HTML for fast efficient downloading.
Accessibility
Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) compliant.
Phase 3 – Testing & Launch
Multi-Media
We can make your site stand out form the rest. Flash animation, Photos, Virtual Panoramas, and Video or Audio are just some of the dynamic ways we can help you to deliver your message, and make your web site an interactive and dynamic tool.
Browser Testing
Site is previewed and tested with Internet Explorer 7 & 8+ & Firefox 1.5 and Safari using SVGA monitors at 800×600 and 1-24×768 screen resolution. Graphics use “browser safe” colour palettes. We do not support Internet Explorer prior to 7 as it is non-compliant. However, we are available to fine tune for earlier browsers of a fee basis.
Alpha Site
Once the click-through-prototype is created, we conduct link integrity and browser compatibility tests to ensure quality. We make sure pages download fast and error free.
Final Launch
The final payment for your site is due before the final launch of the site. We also provide you with a project completion check-off to indicate the project has been completed as specified in the project contract.
Other Services available for your Site:
Maintenance: We provide reliable and prompt web site maintenance, or we can train you to maintain your own web site where possible.
Hosting: We offer commercial web site hosting packages to meet your needs.
Basic Site Traffic Analysis: Basic stats and referrals.
Domain Registration: We can register your domain name or give you the option to transfer your domain if you wish to host your site with us
Search Engine Submission: Your web site is optimized for the most popular search engines and directories.
Web Marketing: Develop banner ads, link submissions and exchange as well as many other personalized methods to get you out there and noticed.
Web Analytics: Weekly or Monthly detailed and comprehensive site analysis report of your visitors and all pertinent information that will assist you in your well-rounded marketing strategy.
