Web Design

A good web site begins with good web design, and is developed from user-centered design.

In understanding web design (step three) the message to be communicated must be logically organized (step two). All information presented on a web page, can then be created visually (step three).

The technically building the design falls under the category of Web development, shown in (step four).

The process of designing a web site generally follows a series of sequential steps. Going through these steps sequentially, will save time and money.

Here are the steps to a successful site:

Recommended sequence for designing and publishing a web site

1. Site Definition - defining and planning your web site. The concept or idea for the web site rules this step.

2. Organize Information - identifying content (writing the content) and how that information is structured. How the content of your web site will be organized.

3. Visual Design - graphic design, illustrations, photographs, images or what it will actually look like on the web. The visual design will match the tone and style of your written content.

4. Site Construction - software choices, html and test files. The actual building of the files put up on the web. You can participate in the editing of your new web site by going to the clients page. This is where I set up draft versions of your new web site and you can see changes immediately and chart the progress.

5. Site Marketing - advertising the new site. Web based advertising (search engines) and print media.

6. Delivery - uploading html files to your server. Passing the project on to you. Maintaining your web site is simple. If you can use the computer for word processing, you can maintain a web site.

*Each process is unique, steps may be repeated and revised as the web site develops.

Preparation
The process of creating a web site takes preparation and is usually a team effort. It is best to prepare as much of the material (content) in advance.

For example to save time and money have written content finalized, photographs or illustrations selected, or a logo designed. I can assist you with any of these tasks or you can do some or all of it or you may have another professional take on specific parts of the process. You may want to work with a professional writer, photographer or illustrator to generate the content. The "putting together" of these pieces for the web, is the web designers job.

When you understand what your role is in this collaborative process and take it step by step, the task of creating a web site becomes manageable. I can assist you as you generate the necessary information and materials you need. We work as team, creating web sites that are highly functional and beautiful.

Once the process has begun, it is important to keep it moving forward by following through on set tasks. This process generally follows the pattern of setting tasks, completing tasks, evaluating tasks, setting new tasks and so on, until the web site is done. Feedback is critical to this process, and is based on open and clear communication.

How long does it take to create a web site? It generally depends on how well prepared the material for the web site is, and how large the site will be and what the goals of the web site are.

To prepare for the creation of your web site check these steps. See how much you already have done, and see what still needs to be done.

Your inquiries are welcome, for questions, comments or suggestions,
contact me at rebeccamoran@att.net

List of published URL's and unsolicited comments:

asianamerican.uconn.edu
for the Asian American Studies Institute

www.mansfieldct.org/schools/MMS/compost/index.htm
for the Town of Mansfield, CT and MMS Composting program, designed complete site.

"...Boy, have I been receiving loads of compliments! So, I pass them on to you, the designer. "Very excellent job" is the essence of the comments I am getting. Once again, thank you ~Virginia D. Walton"

www.universalthirdorder.org
for a private client, re-designed web site.

"I offer my high praise for the beautiful job you've done with our TUTO website. I'm a member of some nine years. The site is a joy to behold!"~ Liz Stewart

An example of an on-line clothing company that market denim coats,
called "Softdenim"

Creating a sample home page includes a typographic logo called "Softdenim.com" (header or web banner), navigation structure (menu bar) and appropriate colors and typography.

A home page is like the cover of a book, and it's important to introduce the web site, give information as to what the web site is about, and establish the visual and organizational structure of the site.

Layout, typography and information structure create a strong presentation. When you think about your own web site, think about what you want the web site to accomplish.

Flash Animation can be added to integrate motion graphics, kinesthetic typography, sound and interactively for web site design.