When it comes to building websites, having a streamlined process is essential to ensure that everything goes smoothly and the final product exceeds expectations. At Swoon Digital Design, I take pride in my methodical approach to creating WordPress and Shopify websites. I’m excited to share my detailed project process with you so you can understand how I bring my client’s visions to life.
WordPress Website Build Process
Creating a WordPress website with me typically spans 7-8 weeks. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during each phase:
Planning & Discovery (Week 1)
The planning stage is all about gathering information and laying a strong foundation for the project. Here’s what I do during this week:
- Send a design questionnaire to understand your preferences and needs.
- Create a sitemap to outline the website’s structure.
- Set up a kickoff call to discuss the project’s goals.
- Collect content, branding assets, and any necessary logins.
Design (Weeks 2-3)
In the design phase, I bring your ideas to life with initial page mock-ups. Here’s my general process:
- Create initial designs for the home page and one internal page.
- Complete the first revision cycle based on your feedback.
- Design additional page templates.
- Conduct revisions until we have finalized the designs and you’re completely satisfied.
- Obtain your approval on the designs.
Development (Weeks 4-6)
During development, I focus on building the actual website. I will:
- Create a staging site where the development takes place.
- Complete the main development tasks.
- Configure SEO tools and add meta titles and descriptions.
- Set up any forms and create a 404 page.
- Conduct thorough quality checks for both mobile and desktop.
- Review all links to ensure everything works perfectly.
Launch (Weeks 7-8)
This stage is all about preparing for the big launch. Here’s what I do:
- Handoff the staging site to you for review.
- Address any updates you request.
- Create a redirect sheet for post-launch implementation.
- Obtain your final approval to launch.
- On launch day, I will perform all pre and post launch checks, setup any necessary redirects, test all forms, and connect your site to Google Analytics and Search Console.
Shopify Website Build Process
My Shopify website build process takes about 8-9 weeks. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during each phase:
The planning stage is all about laying the groundwork for your online store. Here’s what you can expect from me during this week:
- Send a design questionnaire to understand your preferences and needs.
- Create a sitemap to outline the website’s structure.
- Set up a kickoff call to discuss the project’s goals.
- Collect content, branding assets, and any necessary logins.
- Send a product import template and a Shopify needed items questionnaire.
Design (Weeks 2-3)
In the design phase, I bring your ideas for your shop to life with initial page mock-ups. Here’s my general process:
- Create initial designs for the home page and product page.
- Complete the first revision cycle based on your feedback.
- Design additional page templates.
- Conduct revisions until we finalize the designs and you’re completely satisfied.
- Obtain your approval on the designs.
Development (Weeks 4-6)
During development, I focus on building your Shopify store. I will:
- Create a staging site for development.
- Guide you through purchasing a theme.
- Complete all the main development tasks.
- Configure any apps.
- Add meta titles and descriptions.
- Import, add, and organize products, set up all backend shipping and checkout settings.
- Set up the Shopify backend and checkout settings.
- Conduct thorough quality checks for both mobile and desktop.
Launch (Weeks 7-8)
This stage is all about preparing for the big launch. Here’s what I do:
- Handoff the staging site to you for review.
- Complete any requested updates.
- Finalize payments and transfer ownership to you.
- Obtain your final approval to launch.
- On launch day, I will perform all pre- and post-launch checks, set up any necessary redirects, test forms, and checkout, and connect your site to Google Analytics and Search Console.