Information Technology Solutions
Building a web site can be a challenging concept. There are a multitude of components that can be incorporated from visual design to database integration, this also means that there is scope for things to go wrong. Too many web designers, in particular the DIY designers, just do it without the forethought and planning.
In order to minimise the possibility of errors we methodically follow a design process. By planning the site at an early stage allows for expansion, and modification.
During the process we look specifically at the site structure, any technologies requires, consistency with your offline marketing (brochures, flyers and other promotional material), the type of site, and how to provide an accessible site.
In creating a site we follow a modified Waterfall Design method. This involves 6 basic steps:
At all stages in the process we work along with our clients to produce the design and operational facilities required.
The nature and size of a web site can determine how a site is best organised. There are numerous ways in which to organise, or structure the pages in a web site, this could be content dependant, frequency of visits, audience interaction, or any of a host of other methods. For small sites a simple linear structure may be suitable, for larger sites a tree structure may be a more suitable implementation.
Once the site structure has been defined it is then possible to determine the navigation method, the method by which people will move from one page to another. Navigation should help users where they are in the site, and where they can go to. The structure of the navigation links is important, are they at the top, left side, right side, static, or dynamic menus.
When we look at design it is important to retain a uniform image between any existing offline material such as brochures and flyers, and the image presented by an online presence.
When looking at the language the site is written in the function of the site should be considered and the hosting strategy. For example a host using a Linux platform will not normally support asp code. The language can be determined by the combination of the hosting and the function, for example is a static site suitable or is a dynamic site required, is database access necessary? Possibilities include:
Legislation now makes accessibility to web sites mandatory under the Disability Discrimination act. It is good practice to provide access and usability for:
When creating any site design we follow guidelines for accessibility, and make reasonable adjustments for accessibility as appropriate.
