DEM - Backwards Planning Lesson

 

Backwards Planning Lesson

One of the lessons Joanna and I learned during the process of creating our website for the national competition is the importance of beginning the website development process with a vision of the end result in mind. For you, this means having an understanding of what a web designer does and what elements are required for developing a great website. If you do not have this understanding, your chances of becoming a great web designer (also referred to as a web developer) are reduced, but are not hopeless. 

Web designers should also have knowledge of their target audience so that content on the website addresses the needs of the audience. That understanding must include cultural considerations, accessibility requirements, ethical issues, as well as publishing options. Details about these considerations will be introduced later in the module. For now, let's begin with the initial steps of the planning process.  

 

Begin with a Plan

It is vital that planning takes place in the early stages of web development. As a web designer, you should consider the following questions.

 

Client Input

Web designers construct a variety of websites. For that reason, you should conduct a meeting with the client prior to the start of the project to get a clear understanding of the purpose of the website. During the meeting, ask questions to find out why the website is needed, determine if a website already exists, identify the short-term and long-term goals for the website, determine who are the competitors, discover how they plan to market the website, and what elements are needed for interaction on the website. These are just a few questions for discussion. By the time the meeting ends, your list of questions should also include inquiries for site requirements, functionality, maintenance details, and publication options.

 

Selecting the Team Members

Now that important questions have been answered about the website's purpose and requirements, a determination can be made on the professionals needed to assist with constructing the website. The composition of the team will depend on the scope of the project and the budget allotted. Access the learning object below to view the roles of typical members on a web design team.

 

Web Design Cost Analysis

As you pursue your goal of becoming a web designer, you may decide to open your own business or obtain employment with an established business. The fees you or the business impose on clients will depend on many factors. 

 

IMAGES CREATED BY GAVS