• We discuss the client’s actual website needs
• The client approves final architecture outline (list of pages, forms and applications)
• The client provides example URLs of websites that illustrate their likes and dislikes in regards of website content, design and usability.
• I work up an interface design… look and feel that will be used throughout the website. This will be a mock-up image and not a working website page
• The client and I will discuss the mock-up design and any changes or revisions that need to be made.
• Once final design is approved, it will then be converted into working website pages.
• The client will provide content, copy and photos to be placed on pages
• An Admin section will be built based on the client’s needs.
• The site will need to be tested and any bugs will be fixed and/or tweaks will be implemented. We will require the client’s help with proof-reading and testing.

Posted: May 28th, 2008 under General Website Design Knowledge.
Comments: none

I suggest to all of my clients to look at any new logo or website design and then sleep on it. Then look at it again.

Do not send email with comments on design. Please call to discuss.

I find the first instinct of most clients is to point out what they “don’t like”. This is helpful, but not as helpful as telling me what you do like and the direction you would like to go in.

Example of un-helpful critique: “We don’t like the background.”
This is not helpful because this only eliminates one of infinite options and does not give us any direction.

Example of helpful critique: “We like the background color choice, but would like to use another pattern. Maybe a more linear design.”
Now we know what specifically to change and we don’t waste your time by showing you backgrounds in different colors.

Give examples of websites that have some of the look and feel you are looking for.

I give these examples to help the design process go as efficiently as possible. I am usually charging my client by the hour and want to help my client stay within their budget. Through a phone discussion, we can apply a question and answer discussion, that can be more efficient and less frustrating than through many emails.

Posted: May 28th, 2008 under Logo Design, General Website Design Knowledge, Rodman Design.
Comments: none