Often times when a client is new to getting a website built for their business they can be confused as to how the process works and how the project to flow. So as to help our friends we have put together a Project timeline of how a majority of our projects play out.  There are of course some exceptions to this rule, but more often than not we keep to this timeline.
 

1. We meet with the Client for the first time and discuss what things that they would like to see in their new website and which things they would like to avoid.  We discuss colors, functionality, and target market audience.
2. Then we as designers build 3 basic layout mockups for the client to chose from.  We make any minor adjustments that are needed to ensure that the website fits the needs of our client.
3. We then take the layout that the client has choosen and use that to build what is called a Template, this template is the basic framework for a majority of the pages and will ensure that the site has a single binding design look and feel to it.
4. Once we have finished building the basic templates for the site we get all of the copy that the client wants for the initial launch of the site, we proofread it and get it ready for the web.
5. Once all of the copy and functionality is in place we then go through and check the site on several browsers to make sure that it will work for anyone who visits it.  Currently we check: IE 6/7, FireFox 2/3, Crome, and Webkit(Safari).
6. When the site has passed all of our checks we then set a time to meet with the client, present the final product and teach them how to use their Content Management System(If they chose to use one) so that they can do basic daily maintenance on their site, or if they choose we setup a continuing monthly account and maintain the site for them.

I hope that this outline helps you and anyone new to the idea of having a website built in knowing how the process of the project should proceed.  Feel free to contact Chris McIntosh Designs with any questions you may have.