Show Me Web Works - The Process

Developing a web presence that meets your goals is more readily accomplished when you understand the process involved. While the development of each web site is unique, the steps outlined below serve as guidelines for each site we design.

STEP 1: Initial Consultation

Our initial consultation with you usually takes place in person, at your place of business, and requires an hour or more. The purpose of this meeting is for us to answer your questions and to determine how we can best serve you. There is no charge for this initial consultation, and you are under no obligation to proceed.

What are your goals for the site?
How do you envision it?
Who is the audience for your site?

STEP 2: Cost Estimate/Proposal

If, after our initial consultation, you would like to move forward, we will gather additional information about your proposed site and prepare a written cost estimate/proposal. The charge for preparation of this estimate is $50. This fee shall be waived upon contract signing. If, however, you decide not to proceed, $50 shall become due and payable.

STEP 3: Contract

After reviewing the estimate, if you are satisifed with the terms, we will prepare a written contract that will include the cost estimate details.

Upon signing of the contract, the $50 cost estimate fee is credited to your account, and 1/3 of the contract price is due and payable.

Step 4: Getting Started

Domain Name Registration: Your domain name (i.e. yourcompany.com) is how your viewers will know you on the web. Deciding on a domain name, if you have not already done so, is the next important step in the process. We will be happy to assist you in determining and registering your domain name. Registration is approximately $15 per year.

Selection of a Web Hosting Company: A web hosting company owns the computer (known as a server) on which your site resides once it is completed; you pay hosting fees or "rent" for the space on the server. Hosting company servers make the pages of your site viewable online. Designating a host early in the process is advantageous in determining how to best develop your site.

We work with several hosting companies and can recommend one appropriate for your needs, or you may select a host of your own choosing. Hosting services and plans vary widely, so prudent shopping is advised. Hosting fees range from $8 to $25 per month.

STEP 5: Content Gathering

After the contract is signed, we will prepare a checklist for you of the text and graphic content you need to provide before development of the site continues. Obtaining this information from you in a timely manner will alleviate unnecessary delays in the development of your site.

Once the commitment to develop a web site has been made, you are understandably anxious to see a finished product. However, commencing site design without all the information in advance is both inefficient and cost-prohibitive.

We do not knowingly use copyrighted materials without the express written consent of the owner.

Much of the content for your site is already in your files. Possible sources are:

Your logo
Company slogans
Existing printed materials such as annual reports, brochures, catalogs or advertisements
Digital photos or photos which can be scanned

STEP 6: Page Layout and Design

Once we have received all of the agreed-upon content from you, we will begin page layout and navigation design. The layout of the "home" page of the site is usually developed first, and posted to a private Internet address where you can view it and offer feedback. We will incorporate your feedback into a second draft, solicit your comments, and prepare a third (usually the final) draft.

A similar process will be used for the site's secondary pages and for any other special pages required. After you approve these pages, the second 1/3 of the contract price is due.

STEP 7: Page Coding

The approved page layouts and design are then used as patterns for the actual coding of the final site pages, and your content and graphics are placed precisely on the pages.

STEP 8: Testing

The site is posted to the private Internet address for your review. We make any minor corrections or changes you have, then thoroughly test all site pages in a variety of browsers, operating system platforms, window sizes, and monitor resolutions, making corrections as necessary to assure that your site displays properly for all visitors.

STEP 9: Site Launch

Finally, your site "goes live" by being uploaded to the host server and attached to your domain name. The balance of your contract is then due.

STEP 10: Maintaining Your Site

Once your site is launched, you will want to review it frequently to be sure the content remains fresh and accurate. We will gladly update and maintain your site. Ask us about a maintenance contract.