In web development, it is important to have the overall plan complete before beginning the web design process. Validation and optimization will suffer greatly if plans are not clearly defined prior to the job start. The best way to define a project, any project, is with a well written/detailed proposal with very clear descriptive text. A contract should follow the accepted proposal, finalizing the agreement.
Plans are the most critical part of web development. Sketches that detail container CSS speed up the design process, and minimize the debug process. Fact finding prior to the proposal is of the utmost importance. Find out as much detail as needed without wasting time. This initial information will be the foundation of the entire project. The better the fact finding the better the overall project results will be.
Break every project down into four simple blocks:
- Fact finding and investigation
- Initial design comps and proposal
- Contract and fulfillment
- Delivery and followup
Fact finding should be all about the client, their target market, and their budget. We need to find out what they like, don’t like, can afford, and what is good for the future of their site. Putting it together is where true design really happens. This is the foundation of the project from every aspect and ensures delivery of the best possible product.
Initial design comps should be somewhat rudimentary, and the customer should be aware of this. By doing comps it is possible to narrow down the focus to; hopefully, something the client will like, and that performs. Images, text, and graphics all cost money to implement so be sure they are calculated fairly in the proposal. Itemize extensions to be used noting that if it is one of the customers choosing it may not validate or work at all. Make the proposal descriptive about what they are getting, when they are getting it, what they are paying, and how the payments will be handled. This detailed proposal is the main attachment for the contract.
Once the proposal has been accepted finish the groundwork with a contract that covers everything the proposal did not. Include change orders, additional fee structure, and legal jargon. The design of the site should go smoothly because of the excellent foundation laid in the proposal. Build the application on a testing server where the client can check it out, provide feedback, and approve of it. Before delivery make sure, the package has been debugged thoroughly.
The awesome project has been delivered, the money has been paid, and everyone is happy. Right? No, make sure everything is going well with some follow up. Call, e-mail, or make a personal visit to check on the client with their new application. If there are any legitimate concerns about the application respond in writing, and rapidly take action to resolve it. After all is said and done ask whether the client would be willing to write a testimony for your company. By acting with these four principles, I have outlined the review will be stellar. Great business is all about communication from beginning to end.
