Process Makes Perfect
A little bit about how we approach our work.
01. Learning and Discovery:
Understand Project Objectives: Generally, at the inception of the engagement, we have a strong grip on the overall objectives of a project whether by information contained in the RFP or through initial dialogue with the client. However, upon commencement of the process, we look to gain a deep and rich understanding of not only the high-level project goals, but, the client’s over arching vision and motivation. This is accomplished by a series of questions and further dialogue with the client.
Define Scope: Outline the exact scope of the engagement and create a parallel of client and agency expectations.
Product Requirements: Clarify the functional requirements and necessities for the website. This can range from ease of use requirements, language, compliance, browser compatibility, navigation, level of interactivity and more.
Technical Requirements: Clarify system specifications, server environment, technical procedures, backup processes and anything else related to the technical requirements of the build.
Roadmap and Logistics: Confirm key stakeholders, timeline, processes, deliverables, milestones and completion strategy.
02. Planning:
Assign Development Team: Establish personnel and roles. We enlist the right team members for the project.
Information Request and Collection: Request any relevant information for the project this can range from contact information for the website, style guides, creative assets, fulfillment procedures, domain names, privacy policies, collateral material, terms and conditions, FTP access and more.
Workflow and Communication plan: Establish communication protocols, points of contact, scrum schedule, and checkpoints.
Identify End Users Objectives and needs: This applies to public users, administrators, content managers and any other
Creative Concepting: Develop the overall concept for the solution including functionality, tone, creative technology, content requirements and creative messaging strategy.
03. Creative and Pre-Production:
Blueprint: Develop Information Architecture, wireframe, functional clickable sitemap.
Asset Assembly: Obtain all necessary assets, copy, logos, imagery, and media to be used in the project.
System Architecture: Set up all server appropriate environments based on specifications including development server, staging server, live production server, redundant/backup servers, file servers, content delivery servers, database servers as needed. Install necessary software and applications. Implement security structure and provisions. Make all DNS provisions.
Creative Design: Develop look and feel.
Prototype: Develop a clickable navigable prototype of the site, awaiting finalized designs and functionality.
04. Production:
Development: Full scale build out of all technology and content implementation. Front end, middle tier, and back end.
Creative Completion: Finalize all designs and copy.
Milestone Status Meeting: Near final presentation of website. Detailed status assessment and final completion strategy. Reconciliation of all outstanding items. Unanswered questions etc…
QA/Testing: Conduct alpha and beta user testing. Create user test results reports.
05. Launch:
Pre-launch administration: submit sitemaps to search engines, implement analytics tools, finalize site documentation. Train appropriate client personnel on procedures. Deliver all passwords.
Delivery: Push completed tested site to live server. Support and warranty.
06. Listen:
Data analytics, measurement techniques, and social monitoring enable detailed understanding of performance and engagement allowing us to better address our audience as it relates to overall objectives.
