Our Process

Initial Consultation

During the initial consultation, it is important that we obtain as much information from the client as possible in order to properly answer questions and offer solutions. This consultation part of the process also enables the exchange of ideas where we can discuss the client's goals and expectations of the Web site. This is the building block for the entire process.

Proposal and Estimate

After the consultation, What?Design will provide a proposal with a cost estimate based on the size and complexity of the Web site. We will also provide a time estimate which will be based on our schedule, as well as the size of the site. The estimate will include any outside costs that we anticipate. The client will be offered the choice of excepting a bid price, or being billed on an hourly basis.

Site Design

If the Proposal is accepted by the client then What?Design will start the design aspect of the job. What?Design produces two to three design directions that have been developed based off of our client questionnaire and from conversations with the client during the initial consultation phase. These directions consist of homepage and sub-page design templates that will help illustrate possible directions the site may take. There are typically two or three rounds of client review where clients are encouraged to provide feedback on each direction. Once the design direction has been established, What?Design will complete any remaining templates necessary for the site. Client reviews will be requested for each template prior to handing them off to production or engineering. Once the designs are complete and approved, What?Design will begin to convert the designs into HTML templates and populate the pages with client supplied content. The faster the client can review the designs, and the better the client can articulate the directions to which they are predisposed, the faster this entire process moves forward.

Client Approval

After the Web site design is complete and functioning, the client will be responsible for the final proof of the site. Once this is complete, the site will be uploaded to the client's ISP or server, and tested for functionality.

Maintenance and Updates

Once the site is online and operational, there still may be a need for periodic updates. These services are generally not included in the initial estimate or bid and will be billed individually based on the time necessary to complete the tasks. If the updates occur at predictable intervals, It is recommenced that a maintenance agreement be used.