Web Workflow

We know the process of a website may be confusing or complicated to some. Here is an explanation of how our process works and some definitions of website terminology that should be helpful in making your decision. Please contact us if you have any further questions!

INITIAL MEETING

An initial meeting will determine what content will be put on the site and how the site will be arranged/organized. We will review the style guide for your company and determine whether or not future site content will have to be updated by webmaster (82 Concepts) or client. The creation of a website of any caliber is a collaborative effort requiring strong communication between web designer and client. We will work closely with you at every step of the creation process and welcome your input.

After initial discussion of the basic requirements for your website, we will decide whether you need a Content Management System (CMS) or Static (brochure style) website .

• A Content Management System (CMS)  is a website that is maintained through a MySQL database. This database is used by every major content management system. Websites that use this type of database are Wikipedia, Google and Facebook. This type of website is best for clients who need to constantly update and add information to their site. The user-friendly system makes addition of media to your site very easy, with no knowledge of web coding needed. (For further information on what a CMS can do for you, visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Content_management_system )

• A Static Website has content that must be updated by the webmaster (82 Concepts), and is primarily used for brochure-style websites with information that does not need to be updated often. This type of website operates like an expanded business card, with content that does not change very frequently. It will assist your customers in learning about your existing services, while allowing them to access your company’s contact information, biography, menus, etc. Knowledge of HTML is required to make updates to this type of site. We are ready to make these updates, changes, and additions to your site with ease.

GETTING STARTED

To get started we will need: images and general information (contact info, menus, spreadsheets, mission statement, press releases, logo, video, audio, products, biography, CV) supplied by client. We will discuss the organization of this content into categories, creation of special features specific to your needs (blog, portfolio gallery, store, user management roles, discussion forum, video display) and view other sites that you find aesthetically appealing.  From there, we will determine a theme (also known as a style, layout, or design) that is tailored to your company or organization’s requirements, needs, and design specifications.

THE CREATION PROCESS

Website creation process begins with setting up hosting (the housing / online storage) of your site with your domain name (i.e. www.www.82concepts.com). The next step is installation of the preferred CMS on your host and set up of a MySQL database. We then begin the creation of the theme and layout, set up e-mail for your domain (i.e. shane@82ceoncepts.com), and determine the organizational foundation of content information to create categories and sub-categories (Yes, this does sound complex and no, it will be easy to do and maintain in the future). Think of how a large store website works, such as Amazon.com.  It breaks down categories such as music into more refined and specific sub-categories like classical, pop, jazz, etc. We do this to facilitate the user’s ability to find specific information on your site quickly and easily.

Once the theme is finished, the site will be populated with content and special features will be implemented. This stage is where the site takes shape.  In order to expedite this process, it is imperative that all content for website has been sent to us from the client.  During this time, we will be working closely with you to ensure that the site is as you envisioned.

TESTING

Once revisions are made, the site will go through a series of tests.  Cross-browser compliance will assure site looks and operates the same in different browsers (for example, Safari vs. Google Chrome vs. Firefox vs. Internet Explorer 7/8).  The following are examples of specific testing: special features (for instance, viewing videos), user management (permission roles set up for comments, editing), search engine optimization (SEO), website security, automated database backup, Google analytics (website statistics), Spam prevention, and advertising.

TRAINING

Final reviews of site and client approval will complete the process. Client will be trained throughout process to add and update content, add users, change permissions, and other specific functions pertinent to their site requirements. Plans can be made for future expansion of site and customer feedback is welcome after launching of the site.