The Web Design Process

1. Understanding the project requirements

Meeting with the client, whether in person, over the phone, or via email or Skype, is crucial for establishing the project brief for the website. This involves analyzing and discussing the brief provided by the client. The brief needs to be detailed, specific, documented, and agreed upon to serve as a reference point throughout the project. As a web designer, you can also set your price and outline a timeframe based on the brief. Without a comprehensive brief, these steps would not be feasible.

2. Determine the essential needs

After reviewing the brief and conversing with the client, the primary requirements that the website must fulfill should be identified first. Is it an e-commerce site? Does the client need a content management system? Does it require special effects? These factors will determine the design approach taken and should be given the most attention in your timeline, serving as the core features around which the site is built.

3. Investigate existing websites

When creating a website for a business, it's essential to evaluate the competition initially. Sometimes, clients may want their new site to rank higher in search engines than their competitors or have additional features. Therefore, understanding the competitive landscape is crucial. Familiarizing yourself with industry standards for a specific type of website, if needed, is also important. Regularly exploring and analyzing new websites as a designer is beneficial and can inspire your future designs.

4. Establish the fundamental website structure

Before delving into the technical design and programming, it's advisable to brainstorm and sketch ideas for the basic site structure and layout. This method allows for quick and easy idea development, quicker than using Dreamweaver or Photoshop. Mapping out the design will streamline the website creation process later on. Refer to the web design tips section for assistance in structuring your website. It's recommended to touch base with the client at this stage before proceeding.

5. Design the website graphics

Once the layout and style for the site are determined, you can start creating the necessary graphics for the website. This may involve designing the website logo, banner, buttons, image maps, and formatting pictures. All graphics should align with the website's style and color scheme. Various file formats, such as .gif and .jpg, can be utilized for graphics. For guidance on selecting the best format, refer to the common file formats section. Our Photoshop and illustrator tutorials can assist you in creating graphics.

6. Develop and code the website

With the layout finalized and graphics ready, you can commence building the basic site structure. Start with the HTML template to create a site master page, serving as the foundation for all web pages. It's advisable to use CSS media queries to make the template responsive. Since most web pages will share a basic layout, creating a master page initially can save time. Once the template is set, inserting the previously created graphics and content into the relevant pages will swiftly complete the website. Seeking feedback from the client at this stage is recommended for design review.

7. Enhance the website design

Based on client feedback and personal reflection on the design, make any necessary adjustments to the website. This may involve subtle changes to colors, image edits, font alterations, or minor layout adjustments. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) should also be integrated, including keywords, image tagging, and meta-tags. For detailed information, refer to the SEO section.

8. Website testing and quality assurance

Proofreading all website content, testing links, and interactive features are essential tasks in this phase. It's advisable to gather feedback from a select group matching the website's target audience demographic to evaluate the design and functionality suitability.

9. Launch the website

Launching the website marks the culmination of the process, but the saying 'build it and they will come' does not apply to websites. Indexing the website in various search engine directories is crucial for visibility. Advertising the site across different media channels and utilizing online advertising platforms like Google Adwords are recommended strategies. Leveraging social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ will enhance the website's online presence and drive traffic to the site.