Our web design process

  1. Design brief: Through the initial brief from the client and further questions and discussion, information and design criteria are established. These criteria include the needs, objectives, and problems to be solved. For more information on how to best brief a designer for web work, please reference the Atom Graphics web design brief guidelines.

  2. Statement of work: Since websites are typically larger projects involving a team approach, a general agreement that details several factors can be helpful. This is usually created with the project manager or client point of contact. It should include:
    Project objectives and requirements
    Project team members with clearly defined responsibilities
    Project time frame
    An outline of the proposed site architecture (site map)
    Technical requirements
    Nature of all deliverables
    Estimated fees and anticipated expenses for each item


  3. Wireframe (optional): On complex sites with a great deal of cross-linking and navigation levels, it can be helpful to implement a ‘generic’ clickable site that can be adjusted until everyone is happy with the content and functionality. This eliminates the confusion that sometimes occurs when trying to make content, usability, and design decisions all at once.

  4. Design concept development: Presentation of an idea (or ideas) that the Atom Graphics’ design team feels meets the criteria. This is typically the homepage and one secondary page.

  5. Concept adjustments: Made based on client feedback and discussion.

  6. Design implementation: Decisions are made concerning commissioned illustrations, photography, copywriting, and all other elements. All key page designs are implemented.

  7. Design adjustments: Made based on client feedback and discussion.

  8. Production: After all images and key page designs are approved, the entire site is implemented by our developer. At the end of this step, the client does a careful final review of the site for errors and gives final sign-off on the project. Upon final approval, the site is made live.

  9. Maintenance: If the site has a content management system, updates and changes to the site are typically done by the client, in-house. Atom Graphics is also able to provide this service, depending on frequency and scope, with fees based on an hourly rate.

A few simple recommendations that we have found help projects run smoothly and stay on budget:

  1. Have a dedicated point of contact at your organization for the project.

  2. Avoid the need for consensus among a large group of people. One person, or a few key people, should have final decision-making power regarding the design.

  3. Consider the design’s effectiveness in relation to the agreed criteria, not personal taste.

  4. Typically two rounds of text changes are included in the estimate. To keep costs down, please compile all requested changes into one email or document. Wait for feedback from all parties (proofreader, writer, project manager, etc.) before sending to Atom Graphics.
Atom Graphics