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The secret behind any successful professional web design company is their web design process. Our process rocks.

Web Design Process

In website design, planning is everything. We apply our detailed process to the website design and the web development of the client's website. The project is broken up into seven stages, with the last two being optional. Each of the first fives stages has an equal level of importance and cannot be skipped. Finally, the project (and each stage) is not deemed complete until it meets your satisfaction. Here is how our web design process works:

Stage 1: Initial Research/Project Setup

Based on the information the client provides, Chromatic Sites will research:

  • Elements from websites the client prefers to better determine what is desired in terms of style, layout, and functionality
  • Client's competition
  • Specific goals and the best ways to reach them

Stage 2: Flowcharts/Wireframes

Flowcharts/Wireframes are created to illustrate the 1) Layout and 2) Navigational hierarchy of each unique page within the website.†

†There are no graphics or colors in the Flowcharts/Wireframes stage.

Stage 3: Design/Mockups

Graphical layouts of each unique page are mocked up using Adobe Photoshop CS3. Collaboration occurs between the client and Chromatic Sites to reach the desired look and feel for the website.

Stage 4: CSS (Cascading Style Sheets)

Once completed, the design mockups are broken apart and formatted using CSS (cascading style sheets) with XHTML compliance and web standards (w3c.org) in mind. Once the design comps are converted to CSS, the structure for the website will be in place and accessible via a web browser.

Stage 5: Programming/Content Management System (CMS)

The front end of the website (design, layout) is connected to the back end of the website (functionality). Extensive testing from both Chromatic Sites and the client is performed. Upon completion, the website will be fully functional and the client will have complete control over all content within the website via the integrated Content Management System (CMS).

Stage 6: Website Updates/Tweaks/Modifications (optional)

This stage is roughly equivalent to website maintenance.†

†Billed hourly. Services performed include: updates/tweaks/modifications.

Stage 7: E-Commerce (optional)

E-Commerce capabilities integrated seamlessly into website. Includes: layout/design, seamless website integration, and integration with payment processor(s). The store will be fully functional and operable by the client upon completion.

Questions? Want a project proposal?

Contact our sales department by filling out our proposal request form or call us at 815.666.8568 to learn how you can maximize your company's web potential.

Process makes perfect

Our website design process has proven to be successful for our clients time and time again.

Pre-planning has proven to be a vital piece of the website design equation. A clear, well thought out plan makes for a smoother process and the best possible outcome. We get it right the first time.

View our popular article "Dos and Donts Guide to Great Web Design" to learn more about our web design process.

View testimonials from past clients of Chromatic Sites. Before you choose a web design, development, or marketing company, wouldn't you like to know what past clients think? We've got nothing to hide at Chromatic Sites.
How much do Chromatic Sites professional services cost? We get this question a lot. Our short answer? It depends on the project and what you need. Continue Reading to find out why.