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Bahl Infotech | Website Design Process

When it comes down to it, a website is basically a communication tool. Therefore, one-to-one communication between a client and a designer should be the goal at every step of the way regardless of the particulars of the web design process. Asking questions leads to open, ongoing communication and subsequent improvement of the design process. However, most effective processes follow a certain guideline, allowing the customer to gain knowledge about website design as well as allowing the designer to grasp just what the customer's needs really are.

Begin with a Discussion

During the initial period of the design process, it's important for both the customer and the designer to feel each other out so both parties understand just how each other communicates. There are certain nuances that can lead to misinterpretations. This is especially true as more business communication becomes international, with the language barrier often presenting a challenge. Therefore, before the design process begins in earnest, both customer and designer should take some time to get acquainted with one another. It is also important to note that any changes in personnel on either end can cause confusion and stress once the process is underway. Once greetings have been exchanged, then business discussions can continue.

Talking About Goals

In this initial stage after the getting to know you meeting, the designer should take the role of listener, allowing the client to express their needs and their concerns about ownership of a website and how this website can better serve their business goals. These business goals need to be carefully defined so that both parties have the same understanding of what these goals are. Here is an excellent guideline for setting the goals for any website design.

1. Make sure that any goals outlined are very specific = S
2. The goals for your website need to be programmable. This means that they have to be achieved through some type of methodology = P
3. Your website goals need to be realistic in order to be attainable = A
4. These same goals need to be measurable = M
5. Finally the goals need to be objective = O
    

This translates into the acronym SPAMO and should be kept in mind throughout the entire process and referred to often to make sure everyone stays on the same page throughout the process. Through goal definition, the client’s needs will clearly define all costs associated with the project. One of the process statements should be that the plan may be subject to change as necessary. This will account for the designer providing a cost estimate based on everything discussed.

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