The Web Development Process: An Infographic

Often when we meet with potential clients, one of the first things we cover with them is a complete review of our web development process.

Starting with discovery, moving to planning, design, then construction, followed by a full prototype, and subsequent site launch and promotion, our web development process is a comprehensive look into how we break down a project into intuitive and cohesive phases. The exact structure of our process has been continuously morphing over the years, which has brought us to the format we outlined in the infographic below. You don’t necessarily have to follow this exact process to find success, of course, however following a concise project structure will produce more advanced, and, in turn, more successful, end products.

  1. Discovery Phase: In this first step of the web development process, we meet with the client and determine what the scope of their project is. We put together a Statement of Work contract, a Project Inventory Form, and a budget. We then acquire approvals and the initial deposit from the client.
  2. Planning Phase: From Discovery, we move on to developing a sitemap and wireframe. According to the contract, we go through several rounds of revisions and approvals for both the sitemap and wireframe.
  3. Design Phase: After receiving sitemap and wireframe confirmations, we complete design mockups and submit those for approval. Depending on the contract, we may go through multiple rounds of revisions and approvals. During this phase, we also select relevant images and create user interface (UI) elements, subject to client revision and approval.
  4. Construction Phase: In this phase, we turn design mockups into reality, implementing UI elements, custom Content Management Systems (CMS), advanced programming integrations, and third-party applications. We use CSS, HTML5, PHP, and JavaScript for our custom WordPress theme creation, and PHP and MySQL for database creation.
  5. Prototype Phase: Before we launch the site, we run some internal tests and debugging measures, ensuring that the site functions as anticipated in all pertinent browsers and devices. We submit the website prototype to the client, make appropriate revisions, and receive approval to launch.
  6. Launch Phase: The website is ready to go! Immediately prior to launch, we finalize the customized CMS and train the client on their new site’s functionality. Once the site is launched, we continue to work through any remaining bugs and maintain an open dialogue with the client.
  7. Promotion and Marketing Automation Phase: The last phase of the web development process can be ongoing. Depending on the client’s needs, we promote via social media, conduct SEM efforts on Google and Bing, and implement SEO tactics both on- and off-site. We may also integrate marketing automation tools and advanced lead tracking measures.

If you’re ready to begin, contact The Design Group.

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