The Design Process

The process is both a Joint Effort and iterative. Specifically, we work together throughout and run through two (2) rounds of development to make certain you are getting what you want. Why?

First, when constructing website requirements, a customer may understandably leave out an important item. This is the nature of systems development -- requirements, design, and coding seem to overlap.

Second, it is possible to have miscommunication on requirements or design items. At completion of the second and final round, it is expected that all loose ends are accounted for and both parties are agreed. The Process runs as follows:

  • Initial Estimate
    and Consultation is performed.
  • Payment
    of the half the Estimate is made up front.
  • Contract.
    Sign, date, and return the Design Services Contract.
  • The Development Cycle
    begins: [If you are new to Systems Development, it helps to think of a custom house being built from the ground up. From Architect to Closing].
  • Requirements (High-Level)
    are defined -- identify size, scope, conceptual design and any special needs. These are sent to you for approval. [Think of a rough floor plan, and description of the home you are building].
  • Logical Design
    is sent to you for approval. This is a more "low-level" picture fleshing out the details. This design may include an on-line prototype for you to examine. [Think of a blueprint when building a house. You can pick your carpeting, flooring, countertops, fixtures and other options at this point].
  • Coding/Testing Phase 1
    (upon approval of Design) -- Pages will be published on your Domain for your approval. [Think of your house firmly on its foundation, framed, plumbed, wired, roofed and fully enclosed].
  • Coding/Testing Phase 2
    Addresses any changes and details not added previously. These are published. [Think of carpeting, appliances, and fixtures being added to your home].
  • Final Website Publishing
    after Balance of Fee is paid. [This is your Closing].
  • Fixes.
    Errors generated by the Web Host or by Fountainhead are addressed thereafter for a period of 90 days. [As a home owner you get a walkthrough and warranty items fixed after Closing].
  • Maintenance on the Website is an option available to Clients.

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Maintenance

Three (3) Types of Maintenance are available:

Fixes. Within ninety (90) days of completion, I fix errors and address any problems which may originate with the Web Host services.

One-time Updates. If you require changes -- large or small -- these may be handled by an hourly billing or a set price for all updates. Examples may include a restaurant looking to post changes to their menu, or a photographer posting new works.

Regular Updates. For sites requiring a regular predictable volume of updates like postings of events, these can be handled as a monthly fee for a "reasonable and customary" amount of work (through a set cap on hours).