New content managed websites – the process
The following information should help clients to understand the process for producing a new, content management (CMS) based, website.
Ideally what I need from all clients is a detailed specification of what you do and don’t want from your new website – its best to get all the details sorted out at this stage so there’s no confusion later.
Specification
I can, of course, base the new structure on that of your existing site (if you have one) but, invariably, clients want to make changes and this is the perfect time to do so. This specification could simply be a list of features etc, but I’ve found the most useful solution is to draw up a tiered ‘tree’ diagram, to show how you’d like to see the website structure working (sample attached) and backed-up with some detailed note sheets for each section.
Costs and timescales
Once we get this specification agreed and finalised, I can check that my initial quote is still workable, and let you know of any likely cost changes. Unless previously stipulated by you, I will also provide you with an estimated delivery timescale at this stage. Once final costs and timescales are agreed, all I need from you is a written/signed order, a cheque representing 50% of my quoted costs, and I can get started.
Design
The first part of the development process is to produce creative designs for the look of your new website. I usually supply designs in the form of a clickable PDF file – several key pages to show design, layout and basic functions. Please ensure you have the latest free version of Adobe Reader.
Build
Once the design is agreed and finalised, the build and development stage begins, based on the agreed designs and specifications. As I develop your new website, I’ll drop in some initial content from your supplied electronic text and image files – you can add the remainder of the content (after all its the best way to learn how to use the CMS!).
Training
Once development is complete I will provide up to 6 hours training, at your premises, on the operation of the Content Management System and any other modules.
Handover and launch
Your new website can be made ‘live’ at any time after development is completed by me. However, most clients usually wait until they get a large percentage of their site content in place before their websites go ‘live’. We can agree what’s best for you later in the development stage. Its important to remember though, that handover stage represents the completion of my work based on the agreed specifications. At this stage you will receive my invoice, and your web services contract begins.
I hope this all makes sense, but do get in touch if you have any further queries, or call me on 07793 035187 for a chat.