Hiring a web development company can be a significant investment for any business looking to build, revamp or improve its online presence. Understanding the processes from start to finish can help you manage expectations and ensure a smooth collaboration. In this blog, we walk through the stages of a web development project from initial consultation to final launch, so that you can know exactly what to expect.
The Web Development Process: An Overview
1. Initial Consultation, Discussions & Discovery
The first step when working with a web development company is the initial consultation. This is an opportunity for both parties to discuss the project’s goals, objectives, challenges and competitors. The company will seek to understand your business, target audience, and specific needs. Here’s what you can expect during this stage:
- Discussion of goals: What is the purpose of the website? Is it to generate leads, showcase products, or build a community
- Target audience: Who is the site aimed at? What are their needs and behaviours? What age range? Which area?
- Key features: What features does your website need (e.g., e-commerce capabilities, blog, contact forms)?
- Budget and timeline: Establish a budget and timeframe that aligns with your business goals.
2. Project Planning and Proposal
When the initial discovery phase is complete, the web development company will put together a project proposal. This document outlines the project scope, timelines, cost estimates, and key deliverables. At this stage you will need to approve the plan before work can begin.
Key aspects of this phase:
- Project roadmap: A timeline that outlines major milestones of the project.
- Budget breakdown: Detailed cost estimates, including design, development, and post-launch support.
- Agreement on deliverables: Clear expectations of what the final product will include.
3. Design and Wireframing
Once the project plan is approved, the design phase begins. The web development company will create wireframes (blueprints) and visual mockups of your website. During this stage you'll have the opportunity to provide feedback to ensure the design reflects your brand and meets your expectations.
What to expect in the design stage:
- Wireframes: These are simple layouts that outline the structure of each page.
- Mockups: High-quality designs that showcase your brands colours, fonts, and images.
- Revisions: You’ll typically go through one or more rounds of revisions to perfect the design before moving forward.
4. Development
With the design finalised, the development phase begins. This is where the web development company turns the mockups into a functioning website. They’ll write the necessary code and integrate any backend systems (e.g., content management systems, e-commerce platforms). This phase also includes:
- Front-end development: The part of the website that users first see & interact with.
- Back-end development: The part behind of the website that powers the front-end, including databases and server-side logic.
- Content integration: Adding text, images, and other media to the site.
5. Testing and Quality Assurance
Before your website goes live, the web development company will perform rigorous testing to ensure everything works as expected. This phase is crucial and tests for bugs, making sure your website functions correctly across all devices and browsers.
Common tests include:
- Cross-browser testing: Ensuring the site works on different web browsers (Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.)
- Responsive testing: Making sure the site looks and works well on mobile, tablet, and desktop devices.
- Performance testing: Checking page load times and overall site speed.
6. Client Review and Feedback
After testing, you’ll get a chance to review the website before it’s launched. This is your opportunity to make any final changes or request adjustments. Be sure to:
- Check all features: Ensure all the functionalities you requested are in place.
- Test the user experience: Navigate the site as a visitor to check for usability issues.
- Provide feedback: Communicate any last-minute changes to the web development company.
7. Launch
Once everything is approved, the web development company will launch your site. This involves moving the website from a staging environment to live servers, ensuring it is accessible to your audience.
What happens during launch:
- Domain setup: Pointing your domain name to the new site.
- DNS propagation: It may take up to 48 hours for the website to be fully accessible worldwide.
- Final checks: A last round of testing to make sure the site is functioning properly post-launch.
8. Post-Launch Support and Maintenance
Even after your website is live, your web development company should offer ongoing support. This may include regular updates, bug fixes, security monitoring, and performance optimisation. Some companies also offer training on how to manage your content or use any custom features.
Key aspects of post-launch support:
- Updates: Ensuring the website’s software stays up-to-date.
- Backups: Regular backups to avoid data loss.
- Performance optimisation: Monitoring site speed and making improvements where necessary.
FAQs About Working with a Web Development Company
1. How long does it take to build a website?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the project. A simple brochure website might take as little as 2 weeks, whilst a more complex e-commerce site could take 3-6 months.
2. How much does it cost to hire a web development company?
Costs depend on the scope of the project. A basic website may start at around £500-£1,000 whilst a more complex, custom-built site could exceed £10,000.
3. What is the difference between front-end and back-end development?
Front-end development involves the parts of the website users interact with, such as the layout and design. Back-end development refers to the server-side code and database management that powers the site.
4. Will my website be mobile-friendly?
Yes, a reputable web development company will ensure that your website is responsive, meaning it works well on mobile devices as well as desktops.
5. Can I make changes to my website after it’s launched?
Most web development companies build websites using content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, which allows you to make changes to content without needing technical skills.
At Web Choice UK, we are dedicated to delivering high-quality, custom built web development solutions that not only reflect your brand but are also designed to drive growth and success.
Our team of expert developers and designers work closely with clients to understand their unique needs, ensuring that every website we build is fully optimised for SEO, mobile-friendly, and tailored to provide an exceptional user experience. Whether you're looking for a simple brochure site or a complex e-commerce platform, we have the skills and experience to bring your vision to life and help your business stand out.
Get in touch for a no obligation quotation or advice on your project.
