It is helpful to split the development process up into three stages: Everyone knows how each stage fits into the whole site, and this focusses everyone onto a clear goal. Also it can be used as a checklist, so the development runs smoothly, and any preparations necessary for future stages take place well in advance.
Before deciding on visual design, it is sensible to define the content of the site - because the amount and type of content will almost always have an impact on the visual design of the site
It is helpful to the reader if the content is split into manageable pages. In the same way a good meal is split into courses so that we have time to digest the food and appreciate the individual dishes. A pause for thought at the end of each page helps readers to remember what they read and also helps them organise the information better in their memory.
At this stage some pages might stand out as ones that need to be updated regularly. Pages that are updated regularly need a different design so that updates are quick and easy.
Don't forget to think about: A site icon (mine is an arrow), keywords (for search engines), a site description (for the search engines too), and also page titles.
We can even help you with professional logo designs and branding.
The first thing visitors to your site will notice is the 'look' or visual style of the site. Like the house you live in, visitors to your site will make first impressions from its design and layout. First impressions last, and can be a very positive thing. Some websites say very little in words, but say an awful lot about the brand they are marketing.
For some people its hard to know what style they want for their site. If you are one of those people - Don't worry, I'm here to help. The visual style can be split into stages too. A good starting point is the page layout, then perhaps choose a color scheme. The different style elements come together surprisingly quickly.
Other things to consider: placement and format of the navigation bar, fonts, interactive elements such as links that change colour when you move over them with the mouse (rollovers).
The last stage is for me to write out the web pages with the content for each one. As the site is being built, I make the draft available on the world wide web so that my client can give me feedback. I update the draft and then the client can give me more feedback. Once we are completely satisfied - we launch!