Our Ten-Step Process

Before a contract is signed or any money changes hands we work with you to complete the two most important steps in the process of creating a website. This allows us to see what we're up against and provides a clear vision as to what is required to complete the project successfully.

Use these arrows to navigate through the process.

  1. 1. Organize the information

    The most important step in creating a successful website is organizing the information by making a site map. Figuring out what types of content works best to meet your goals lays the foundation for a great website.

    To accurately determine what content the site will need we must also know what type of people will be using it. To address this we create fictional characters to represent your site's visitors and envision the site from their imaginary shoes. This helps make sure that your site works well for it's target market.

    We also work with you to develop a content creation strategy and schedule. This explains what needs to be created, whose job it is to create what and when everything needs to be ready. This will help to ensure a smooth ride for everyone during the entire process.

  2. 2. Create a wire-frame

    Once the first step is finished we will be clear on the goals of the project and who will be using it. We can then create a wire-frame design concept to show you how that information can best be presented.

    Think of a wire-frame as a blueprint. Without a blueprint you can't build a structurally sound house, nor can you build a focused and easy to use website without a wire-frame.

  3. 3. Wire-frame approval

    At this stage we will have put in the time and effort necessary to show you how great your website can be. We now have enough information to provide you with an accurate time and cost estimate. If you are happy with what's been done so far, the next step is to sign a contract and a check.

    We typically require half of the estimated total up front with the remainder due upon completion of the project. Though in some cases we do offer payment plan options.

  4. 4. Design the website

    Once the planning and formalities are over with we start our engines. Armed with the approved wire-frame and site map we march forward to create the look and feel of the website. During this process we pass along snapshots of the design early and frequently to make sure that we don't go too far in the wrong direction.

  5. 5. XHTML and CSS programming

    After the design has been completed and is approved we create a well-defined and semantically proper code structure for site. When done right, this step will result in enhanced search engine visibility.

    Once the code structure is complete we can then apply styles and images to that structure to make the site come to life. Once this step is completed you will be able to view your first demo.

    Every site that we create features standard-compliant XHTML and CSS programming. This means your website will function better, load faster and last longer in today's fast moving world of technology.

  6. 6. Content entry and CMS integration

    Here we take the content that has been created and add it to the website. We then go page by page and line by line to ensure that your content looks great.

    Once the content has been added to the site we can begin implementing the CMS. Each project has it's own unique challenges and goals. As such, some CMS work better for some projects than others. We may choose to use our own custom in-house CMS or another system such as WordPress.

  7. 7. Testing, testing and more testing...

    A website that looks great but doesn't work serves no real purpose. So, before we get your approval to launch the site we complete tests to ensure everything works as expected. While we can't guarantee that nothing will ever go wrong, we can guarantee that we will quickly fix any issues that arise.

  8. 8. Final approval

    Once we've completed our testing phase and the site is ready to go live we will meet with you to go over everything. We'll show you how to use the CMS, set up statistics tracking software such as Google Analytics and configure any email addresses required.

  9. 9. Launch website

    Once you give us a green light we turn the key and launch the site. At this point take the final payment (unless other arrangements have been made). We throw a party and everyone goes home happy.

  10. 10. But it doesn't stop there...

    We don't just launch your website and take your money. The success of your new website is important to us. We can help you create and implement a success strategy for your website.

    Engaging with your users, measuring the site's success through statistics, adding new functionality, keeping site content updated and planning for future redesigns are all an integral part of creating a successful website.