The Web Design Process
Below are some of the basic steps I take including preliminaries before the design phase of building a website. Starting with a good web host helps considerably. It’s not all about design although it’s the most fun for me.
Web host server setup
Tweaked for speed and security, including and DNS changes. Also things like SSL certificate, PHP version and variables as well as backups (if applicable), staging area (if applicable), caching, email addresses, etc.
Install WordPress
Including setting up the database manually if needed, and configuring site settings for things like URL structure, discussion/comment options, company info, admin users, etc.
Install and configure security plugins
This is a critical first step to make sure your site is secure from the moment it’s installed. Includes anti-spam setup, firewall, limit user logins, etc.
Install and configure Divi theme
Including things like your logo, custom color palette, fonts, and other global settings. If custom functions are required, a child theme will be installed.
Install additional plugins
For your specific needs and requirements this might include things like SEO, contact forms/integration, site speed/caching, image compression, analytics tracking, etc.
Install WooCommerce
If eCommerce is needed, WooCommerce is installed along with many additional plugins for things like shipping, payments, memberships, special coupons, or a miriad of others. A few test (or real) products/product categories are added for demo purposes.
Initial Setup
I typically start by adding all the pages to the site without any content. Then, make the navigation menus I think will be needed. This might also include setting up blog categories and/or page hierarchies.
Design Header & Footer
Using your color palette, I begin designing the header and footer including things like your logo, menus, buttons, CTA’s, etc. making sure everything is polished for mobile devices.
Home page design
The home page is usually next and designed with your branding, calls to action, mock-up imagery and layout, etc. Design elements here will play a role throughout the site.
Inner Page Design
The rest of the pages following soon after the home page design. Things like About, Contact, etc. Different layouts may be needed for things like a blog page, blog posts, portfolio posts, category pages, etc.
If eCommerce is yes
I’ll customize the Cart, Shop, My Account, product category, and product pages. This may include installing a custom child theme if we require custom functions. And of course, we test, test, test.
Go Live
We go live with your new website and test everything one last time. Add tracking codes like Google Analytics or Facebook Pixel. You make your mark in the world.
