The following is a quick outline of the process that I have been using on most of the sites I do.
It focuses on getting clear on what you’re doing before you start, and staying clear while you work towards a great result.
1. Figure out the goal of your website
Being clear about what you are working to achieve helps you achieve it. You need to decide what the main goal of the website is.
For example, a web store, an informational website, an entertaining website.
It is important that you define this step as clearly as possible because a website’s goal has a major impact on the whole project. This is the foundation of the website.
2. What specific features do you want on your website
Now you look at actual features that you need to implement. For example, a shopping cart for an online store, an image gallery, FAQ, an online forum.
3. Create a structure for your website
Now you are ready to actually start mapping out the sections of the website and giving them a hierarchy of importance.
4. Write your content
All websites are driven by content. It is the content that makes a site effective and successful. The more detailed is your approach to this step the better results you will have.
5. Find a style for your website
At this stage of the process, you are ready to start looking at the visual aspect of the site – the design. It should meet your industry’s requirements and look fresh and clean.
6. Register a domain and find a host
You can do it either on your own or find a professional Web Design company that will register your domain and provide you with business hosting.
7. Build the website
You have a few options:
- Hire a professional web designer
- Do it yourself (as long as you have some web design experience).
- Buy a website template. You will not get a unique, high-quality website, but you will save some time and money
8. Evaluate your website
Once your website is up and running, you should walk away from it for a day or two. This will allow you to come back and evaluate it with fresh eyes. It might also be a good idea to get someone else (friends, co-workers) to take a look as well.
9. Promoting/Advertising your website
The least that you can do is to submit your website to major search engines. To get greater results, find a Search Engine Optimization Company.
If you follow these steps you will find yourself working more quickly and under less stress while developing a better website for your clients.