In order to execute a successful web project Anita follows a process designed to add structure, time efficiency, and quality to her projects all while allowing flexibility.

Define

Before any project begins I try to understand the client's needs, and requirements. Defining is key to the start of a successful project for both the client and myself. Having a good definition of what needs to be done will help limit any errors and heartaches that come with web design and development.

The following steps are taken during the define phase:

• I begin by responding to a client's Request For Proposal (RFP) with any questions or concerns.
• A meeting with the client, preferably in person, takes place afterwards to gather information about their target market, color scheme, requirements, assets, content...
• A written RFP response and proposal is created based on client's needs
• If client approves the proposal, a contract is drafted

Planning

Once the client confirms the definition of the project, and once I have established the purpose, functionality, and personality for the site, it's time to plan the structure. If you plan the website well, you will be able to attract the right target market, encourage interactivity, and create a fantastic user experience. The following steps are taken in the Planning phase:

• Create Site maps, Wireframes, Flow charts
• If the website is going to store information in a database like a membership system, then an ERD is created as well. The ERD will allow you to map out, exactly how information will move from interface to database.

Design

Now it is time to unleash the artistic side of web design. Before getting started, all necessary materials needed to complete the design, are gathered from the client. Items gathered include: logos, specific fonts, color swatches, content, etc... Once you have what you need it is easy to start the following steps:

• Create mock ups with the exact representation of the site
• Once client reviews the mock-ups, I draft a second one to include any additional edits that the client requests. Once a mock up is approved, the site is coded in html and css.

Develop

Depending on the site I may start developing as I am designing the css and html. I prefer the royce method over the waterfall method of coding. But for the sake of organization, I rather develop the functionality only after the design has been established. Some people like to do it in the reverse order.

Test

Once the site has been designed and developed it is tested for Xhtml compliance and across different browser platforms. In addition, a thorough test to check that links are not broken, images are in tact, and applications function is taken as well.

Analytics

I like to apply Google Analytics to my websites to see how it performs and if marketing objectives are being met. If the client is interested, I also consult them on marketing strategies to optimize their web presence.