Getting Started
Here’s an overview of what I need to get started on your project.
1) Consultation and Planning
We will meet over the phone, via video conference, or in-person so that I can gather information about the project, including the goals for your site, and what assets you have available for the content of your site. I will also introduce you to my client portal, a webspace we will use to keep communicating the project.
2) Client Portal
Throughout the entire process of developing or re-designing your website, we will communicate using my Client Portal. We will be able to exchanges messages and post files and other content for your site. The Client Portal will help alleviate lots of email threads between us, though we can still use email when needed. After you sign up as a client, you will be given full client access to the portal. I think you will really like it.
3) What I need to get started
These items can be uploaded to your ClickUP project account or if need be in your secure Dropbox folder. See more below.
Your Logo
PDF, EPS or high res JPEG or PNG if possible.
Hosting Credentials
Your hosting account login and/or Cpanel username and password.
Wordpress Login
An administrator login to your current WordPress site. (if this is a redesign of the WordPress site)
Images & Pictures
Current and/or new images and pictures you’d like to use on the new site.
Content
Page content and any updated verbiage/information for the site.
Style Guide
Brand style guide, colors or any specific design requirements.
4) My Design Process
Designing a website, no matter how big or small, is an extensive process that can be overwhelming. To better help you understand what to expect during the design and development, I’ve outlined my process into 3 steps:
1) Layout and Design
A large and time-consuming part of designing a website is in the planning and layout stage of the process. I’ll create the sitemap (Page/Menu hierarchy) of the website for approval first, then I’ll design the home page and a subpage (or more upon request) for approval.
2) Build & Develop
Once the site layout and design is approved, I’ll move forward with the designing all site pages and implementing all functionality and plugins. I’ll make sure your site looks great and functions nicely across all devices and web browsers before moving to the final step.
3) Edits & Revisions
Once the site is ready for final review, you’ll be able to review each page and we can make detailed edits until the site is ready for launch. We ask that you please review ALL pages to make sure all spelling, grammar, addresses and information are correct before going live.
5) Wrapping Up & GOING LIVE!
Once the site is ready to go live, all unnecessary plugins, pages, images and backend files will be removed. The new site will be backed up and saved locally, should it ever need restored. Once live, it may take between 24-48 hours for the new site to pull up on some devices. Your browser may need to be refreshed in order to see the new site and though most will see the new site fairly quickly after the launch.
Your website logins and all credentials will be sent to you via basecamp or secure email ensuring the security of your passwords. Though your logins and passwords will be saved by me locally, PLEASE SAVE ALL LOGINS FOR YOUR RECORDS AS WELL. Upon completion, you’ll receive a link to my Moving Forward page where you’ll receive tips and tricks on what to do with your new website and also information on our Maintenance/Security Plan which I highly recommend for all my clients.
