Step 1 :: Planning
We need goals. And we need an audience. We don't even want to touch a computer before we've determined these two things first. For each and every project, we sit down with you to make sure that the goals for the project are clearly defined and then we carry those objectives through with every step until the end.
We want to determine who your audience is and what methods we need to use to best reach them. We also will determine your budget for the project and decide how we can best accomplish our goals at a price that makes sense for you.
Step 2 :: Architecture
You wouldn't go traveling without a roadmap. That's why our next step is to plot out the journey we're about to take you on. This involves developing your site map and determining how your users are going to interact with the site at each stage. Planning these things at the beginning help keep the project on track because now everyone knows where the project is going and how we're gonna get there.
In addition, our team will get you set up with a Basecamp account that helps everyone stay in touch throughout the course of the project. It also allows us an easy means to transfer files and track the progress of each project task. We will also begin the development of the interface design for your new website.
Step 3 :: Development
This is the part where we go away for a while. This will be the primary development stage of your website. It involves the coding and styling of your site. Now that we've determined how it's going to work and what it's going to look like, we are now free to run off and make it happen!
We'll try not to bore you with the details of what goes on behind the scenes, but our team of experienced web developers will be building your site using the most current web development languages including, but not limited to: XHTML, CSS, Javascript, PHP, MySQL, and AJAX. Don't worry about what's involved with all those letters... just know that your site is going to work great!
Step 4 :: Testing & Feedback
Think of it like crash test dummies, but for the web. As good as we are, there's still a little fine tuning that needs to be done to make sure your site is working to it's fullest potential. This part of the process involves user testing the site with your target audience to make sure it's all working like it should.
We're also good with feedback. This is your chance to take out the magnifying glass and let us know what isn't quite working like it should or what parts we nailed! (we especially like hearing about those parts) The bottom line is, we aren't finished until you're happy and we'll make sure of it.
Step 5 :: Launch
Get the popcorn. We'll dim the lights... This is it! All the hard work has finally paid off and your site is ready to launch! We'll make sure it goes off without a hitch. We'll even send out a special e-mail to everyone that you think might want to hear about it.
And for one last touch, we'll install a special site tracking tool so you can see how many people are visiting your site and where they're coming from. This will help you out in future web marketing campaigns.