Web Site Development

Analysis

The analysis phase is the first step of the web site development process. It involves conducting an in-depth needs assessment consisting of the following elements:

• development of goals and objectives for the site
• content review and development
• analysis of the target audience
• analysis of current trends
• market intelligence of similar web-sites
• review of of features useful for the site
• analysis of current technology and equipment available for hosting the site
• review possible domain names for the site
• identification of budgetary or resource constraints
  

• what is your business?
• who is your competition?
• what are you doing that your competition is not?
• what is your mission statement?
• what are your goals and objectives?
• what are your expectations?

A needs assessment is often the most overlooked aspect of the development process. Too often, a project is started in the middle with "this is what we want to do." Prior to investing time and money in a project, however, it is essential to look at the needs of your organization to ensure "what you want to do" will meet those needs.

Design

After the analysis is complete, we focus our attention on the design phase of the project. During this phase, we look at all the elements of the web site to determine the best site architecture and features to utilize.

We will identify specific content to be included in the site. If necessary, we will identify a host and obtain a domain name for the site.

Once the key features are identified and site content refined, the process turns to creation of a master template for the project. This usually takes form as a storyboard.

A storyboard involves a step by step outline, in visual form, identifying all the components of the project. It is similar to completing a puzzle. The components are moved around until they all fit into the project in the most logical and beneficial manner. This includes items such as links to pages within the site and links to outside sites.

We will determine the layout for the project including items such as font types, graphics, colors, backgrounds, navigation tools, and other visual aspects. We create design specifications from scripts and storyboards to the way information will flow. Our design decisions then become blueprints of the final product.

In short, the design phase focuses on details of the total web site and navigation attributes within the site. Our goal is to make the layout as user-friendly, comprehensive, informative, and visually pleasing as possible. We know that in order to keep people coming back requires a well-designed site.

Development

The development phase involves the nuts and bolts of the creation of the web site. This includes:

• content and page development
• searches for useful links as appropriate
• development of custom graphics and logos
• scanning of current logos and artwork
• scanning of documents and text for inclusion in the site
• creation of photos as needed for inclusion
• orchestrating a mechanism to link an on-line catalog with an inventory database
• developing security measures as needed
• inserting animated features and video clips as desired

Testing

Once developed, it is necessary to test the web site. The testing phase targets multiple areas including:

• content specific - Is the material complete, accurate, and understandable?
• design specific - Is the material aesthetically pleasing? Is the navigation control effective? Does the site flow well?
• function specific - Do all the components work as designed. Do page links work? To advanced features work as desired?

Revision

Based on the results of the testing phase, any necessary revisions are made.

Implementation

Once revisions are completed, it is time to launch the web-site onto the internet. This is first done in a "pilot" mode during which all aspects of the launch are analyzed to ensure effective deployment.

Evaluation

At the conclusion of the initial launch, the site is reviewed for effectiveness, problems, and suggestions for improvements. If necessary, modifications are then made.

The design and development process involves an on-going strategy of review, revision, and evaluation. The maintenance phase of the process occurs on a periodic and "as needed" basis. As new strategies emerge, technological advances occur, or new information is generated, ILT stands ready to make any necessary modifications to the finished product.

It is also necessary to continually monitor the site to ensure functionality, that internal and external links function properly and that the site remains in working order. This maintenance can be completed by your in-house IT staff or by ILT staff.