All websites go through a similar process/phase of development.  Your specific project will be similar, yet distinct, based on the options you have chosen for your site.  This is assuming that you have already recognized the need for a website, and have already discussed the type of website you want and the content that will be needed to complete the project, the pricing, and the contract has been executed.  Generally speaking, this is the process and the rough timeline:

Phase 1 Hosting for the website (if needed)

  • Consideration:  Will the old website remain up and active while the new website is developed?  (Client/Owner and AKOR to discuss)
  • If moving an existing website, obtain passwords and login information from owner for old host (to gather information and content prior to hosting changing). (as much as one week needed after access/passwords are received)  (Client/Owner to obtain passwords/logins)
  • Client/Owner to contact old host (if needed) granting permission for the domain name transfer (if applicable) (could take 2-10 days for the transfer of domain-up to old host)  (Client/Owner MUST provide required approvals to OLD host for the transfer – AKOR officially requests transfer)
  • Note:  Access to old host website and e-mail system is needed (login and password information)
  • New Hosting Setup
    • Client/Owner pays up front for the initial term of hosting and for any domain name charges and any other payments as required by the executed contract.
    • AKOR Services will set up hosting for the new website upon receipt of funds required by the contract.  (1 – 2 weeks)
    • Note:  Initial term arranged by AKOR Services.  After initial term, billing for hosting will be by the host directly to Client/Owner.

Phase 2 Preparation

  • Content Development / Approvals, including text, graphics, pictures, etc. (May not be required if previous content is being transferred) (AKOR/Client/Owner) (Time varies greatly, depending on the amount of content, changes and the responsiveness of the Client/Owner)
  • Note:  The above should be a high priority of the Client/Owner in order to expedite the development process.
  • E-Mail System (if contracted), will be setup by AKOR Services on the host, depending on Client/Owner wishes.
  • WordPress CMS installed on website host (AKOR Services)
  • WordPress extensively configured and value-added enhancements are added (AKOR Services)
  • Security enhancements are made and administration personnel/users are defined and added.  (AKOR Services)
  • Contracted Plugins (if any) are added and configured.  (AKOR Services)
  • At this point, you have a Host, a CMS (WordPress), with NO CONTENT ADDED, and with only a basic, un-modified themes/look.

Phase 3 Content Is Added

  • Menu Structures (previously-approved) are customized and set up.  (AKOR Services)
  • All individual Page (Menu page) content is created.  (AKOR Services)
  • Graphics (as contracted) are created and uploaded  (AKOR Services)
  • Pictures are modified (as contracted) and uploaded  (AKOR Services)
  • All Post (Non-Menu pages) content is created  (AKOR Services)
  • All updated content will be viewable (NOT FORMATTED IN THE FINAL “THEME”), for approvals/modifications ONLINE.  (Client/Owner)
  • Once this is complete, we move on to the next phase.  We will not move forward from here until all content is approved.
  • After this point, any new content added will be at an additional charge.  At this point, all content will be completed as per the original contract.

Phase 4  Application of Themes

This is where the magic happens.  This process can be done over the telephone.

  • AKOR Services will typically select 1-3 themes, based on the clients/owner’s needs/wants.
  • Theme 1 will be “applied” to the website.
  • By appointment, the Client/Owner will view the website online for the first time formatted.
  • AKOR Services will walk the client through the website, pointing out features.
  • Client/Owner will provide feedback.
  • If needed/wanted, next theme will be applied.
  • Client/Owner will “refresh” their browser when directed to obtain the New Look/Theme.
  • Process will be repeated as needed until the final theme is approved by the Client/Owner.
  • Modifications can be made to themes, but require custom programming, additional time and money. 

Phase 5 Final Modifications and Final Approval

  • Final adjustments are made as needed, according to the final-selected theme.  (AKOR Services)
  • Final sign-off and acceptance by the Client/Owner
  • Final payment is due immediately as per contract terms.

 

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