Project Brief
Apt Design knows that getting on the same page at the beginning of a project can save countless hours later, so the first thing I do is work with my clients to create a Project Brief for each project. The Project Brief will help us define in words the creative and artistic direction of the project. This step will help you decide and define the path the the rest of the project to follow. Sometimes I meet with clients to fill this questionnaire out; othertimes clients prefer to fill it out on their own and email it to me.
Research
Apt Design takes the time to get to know your business. I look at your current customer demographic, but we also talk about who you want your customers to be. I research current trends in your market and look for ways that you can distinguish yourself from your competitors. I help you find the critical messages you need to get to your market and explore innovative ways to do that.
Site Mapping & Navigation
Creating a great experience for your users starts with having a well-planned map of your site. What content can be accessed from where and what information is given priority is analyzed in this crucial beginning step. Navigation summaries are created to show all the pages, menus and other elements that will be on your website. For some complex sites I first create a wireframe mockup of the site which includes all of the content without specific design.
Content Coordination
I help make things look good, but we first need to have the materials that we are actually going to make attractive. Apt Design works with you help get these pieces in place. This may just involve helping you gather and organize the content to make sure we have everything we need. For some projects I can help you create the content to be used, shooting photos and helping with copy. I also work with professional copywriters, photographers and illustrators who can provide flawless text and images to take your website to the next level.
Design
Only after finding out what you really need and gathering the necessary components do I sit down and begin designing solutions. You will be presented with unique design concepts that reflect our creative process. After discussing your comments and ideas regarding the design I work with you to revise and finalize the concept which will perfectly connect you to your target market.
Development
Finally I begin the creation of your live website. I setup and coordinate your new hosting and CMS installation. Starting from a blank template I develop the entire site in CSS and PHP, matching the design you chose while using the latest standards-complaint coding. I then implement all of your content into your new website. Lastly I add the extra functionality you have purchased and submit your live site to search engines.
Project Management
Apt Design uses a web-based project management system throughout our process that makes workflow more efficient and synchronizes communication. You may login from any computer to check messages, look over the status of your project and view and comment on new files. This system is especially useful when multiple people are working on the project.