For many clients, hiring a web designer is a big step. They don’t necessarily know all the steps, how long each step takes, and what, if any, expectations the web designer has of them. Here’s our simple guide to easily walk you through that. This is how Brevard Web Hosting handles each and every client.
1. The Initial Consultation
Ideally, this is where we hash out the basic idea of what you are trying to do with your new or revamped website that Brevard Web Hosting will be developing and hosting for you. You’ll meet with an account rep or web developer and go over the agreement. Your goals are noted and we collect as much information as we can that you already have – drawings, ideas, outlines, original content such as images, copy, and the like (CD, brochures, digital logos). Once we are both comfortable we understand each other, the agreement is signed, payment is accepted (or arranged) and we part ways.
2. The Wireframe
The first actual email you are likely to receive will be the one containing a link to a wireframe idea. We might have even sketched one out with you during step one, but this one will be a digital copy. A wireframe is merely a diagram that displays black and white lines and blocks to identify what goes where. It does not show colors, fonts, images, and other design elements. Its purpose is to help identify the flow and structure of the website. Sizes are typically not exact on a wireframe. Once the client approves the wireframe, step 3 begins.
3. The Mockup (or Layout)
Now that the Wireframe has been approved, Brevard Web Hosting begins implementing your design ideas and supplementing where necessary. Exact sizes are specified, colors are added, fonts are chosen, your actual logo may even be used at this point (if ready). Essentially, we are creating a non-functional image of what your website should actually look like. When possible, we try to use actual images you’ve provided at this point, or we may suggest images using stock photos (that you can purchase the rights to use for an additional small fee – see “our pricing”/prices). Depending on your plan, you may be have several different layouts to approve. Our smallest plan provides two layouts, typically a home page, and a layout for the internal pages. Usually, we create the internal page first, get approval on that, and then go on to the home page. This is the time to stress any needs you have that seem to be missing from the layout, or are represented in a way different that you imagined.
4. The Live Site Design
Once your layouts are approved by you, Brevard Web Hosting begins the job of turning those pictures into actual website code. We use only valid XHTML and CSS that is semantic and standards-based. Unless you’ve specified otherwise, we usually upload your site to a temporary location so that you can explore it and make any final needed changes or comments. By this time, you will have chosen a domain name, if you didn’t own one already, and your website will be ready to “go live”. Once the site has received final approval, and any outstanding fees have been paid, your site will be live. Your email addresses are typically setup and tested several days before this, so you will be ready to start advertising your new website right away. You will be given a secret password and login, so that if you have future content changes to make, you can simply login to your own website and make them. You won’t need to worry about “breaking” your website with our proven system.
5. The Renewal
Approximately 60 days before the annual anniversary of when your site went live, you will be sent an invoice for your hosting renewal. Simply pay the invoice to continue enjoying professional website hosting, the ability to update and add to your pages, and the advice and assistance of a full-time professional web development firm at your service.
