Our Web Design Process
A clear process gives you a practical role at each stage, from defining the business goal to reviewing the website before launch.
1. Discovery and scope
We start with your business, audience and goals. Tell us what a successful website would change: more phone calls, estimate requests, online purchases or easier access to information. Share examples of websites you like and explain what works for you.
We encourage a conversation at your office or our Richmond office when useful. The scope of work should identify deliverables, responsibilities, cost and timeline so everyone understands the project before the build starts.
2. Customer and competitor research
Identify the businesses you compete with and the customers you want to reach. We use those goals to plan navigation and content around the services people are looking for.
For an SEO engagement, agree on the research included in the scope. This can cover keyword opportunities, competitor content, backlinks and your Google Business Profile. The findings should lead to specific page and content decisions. Learn about our SEO services.
3. Content and design
Provide your logo, brand guidelines, photos and accurate business information. Confirm who will write each page; copywriting responsibilities belong in the project scope.
We develop the design around real content and the actions customers need to take. Review the proposed layouts and give consolidated feedback on copy, imagery, navigation and calls to action. Design approval establishes the direction for development.
4. Development and review
The approved design becomes a working website with editable content and the agreed features. The CMS should suit the people who will maintain it; explore Drupal development and ecommerce options.
During development, be available to answer business questions and supply outstanding content. Review the working pages on desktop and mobile. We check navigation, layouts and functionality before the launch decision.
5. Launch planning and ongoing care
For a replacement website, plan how existing URLs and useful content will be preserved. Review forms, contact details and tracking as part of the launch checklist. Agree on who authorizes launch and who verifies the public site afterward.
Discuss editing guidance, hosting and ongoing support before the project ends. The exact handoff and support coverage should match your agreement.
Prepare for the first conversation
Bring your current website address, business goals, priority features, preferred timeframe and examples of work you like. Review what affects website pricing, browse our portfolio, or check whether we are a good fit.
Talk about your business goals
Tell our Virginia team what you want your website and marketing to accomplish.