Hiring a web designer can feel like a leap into the unknown. Understanding the website design process helps you know what to expect and ensures a successful project. Here's what happens from first contact to launch.
The 6 Phases of Website Design
Phase 1: Discovery (1-2 weeks)
Understanding your business and goals:
- Initial consultation
- Business goals discussion
- Target audience definition
- Competitor analysis
- Content requirements
- Technical requirements
- Budget and timeline confirmation
Your involvement: High—this is your chance to share your vision
Phase 2: Planning & Strategy (1-2 weeks)
Creating the blueprint:
- Site architecture (page structure)
- User journey mapping
- Wireframes (layout sketches)
- Content outline
- SEO keyword strategy
- Technical specifications
Your involvement: Review and approve wireframes
Phase 3: Design (2-4 weeks)
Creating the visual design:
- Homepage design mockup
- Interior page designs
- Mobile design versions
- Color, typography, imagery
- Revisions based on feedback
Your involvement: Provide feedback, approve designs
Phase 4: Development (3-6 weeks)
Building the website:
- Front-end coding (HTML, CSS, JavaScript)
- CMS setup and configuration
- Functionality development
- Content population
- Form and integration setup
- Mobile responsiveness
Your involvement: Provide content, review progress
Phase 5: Testing & Revision (1-2 weeks)
Quality assurance:
- Cross-browser testing
- Mobile device testing
- Functionality testing
- Speed optimization
- Content review
- Client revisions
Your involvement: Thorough review and feedback
Phase 6: Launch & Training (1 week)
Going live:
- Final pre-launch checks
- Domain and hosting setup
- SSL certificate installation
- Site launch
- CMS training
- Documentation handoff
Your involvement: Final approval, attend training
What You'll Need to Provide
- Logo files (vector preferred)
- Brand guidelines if available
- Content (text for pages)
- Photos and images
- Access to domain registrar
- Timely feedback
Timeline Expectations
| Project Size | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|
| Simple (5-10 pages) | 4-6 weeks |
| Standard (10-20 pages) | 6-10 weeks |
| Complex (20+ pages) | 10-16 weeks |
| E-commerce | 8-14 weeks |
How to Be a Great Client
- Respond to requests promptly
- Provide clear, consolidated feedback
- Respect the timeline
- Trust the process
- Avoid scope creep (adding features mid-project)
Ready to start your project? Contact us to begin the discovery process.
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