From Kickoff to Launch: Building Websites that Work
Every website project needs someone who can connect the dots — between content and design, team and client, ideation and execution. That’s where I come in — and stay. I’m with the project from beginning to end, making sure it’s clear, collaborative, and my clients’ websites are crafted with care.
Project Management
I'm here. Start to finish.
From the start, clear communication and thorough planning are crucial. I work closely with the Account Manager, creating both detailed and high-level timelines that are tailored to the unique needs of each project phase. Clients are kept informed and supported from kickoff to launch and should always be aware of the status of their project.
- Guide client expectations & communication
- Create both high-level & detailed phased schedules
- Act as a consistent point of contact
- Coordinates across teams to maintain momentum
Discovery
I'm watching you, Wazowski.
Before we create something new, we need to dive into what already exists. I review analytics, user behavior, and existing materials to understand what’s currently performing and what opportunities lie ahead. The Content Strategist, Developer and I meet to review this data and compile questions. The discovery phase culminates in a detailed Kickoff Meeting with the Client, where we hone in on the details of what the client wants and needs.
True Confession: I’ve been known to eat popcorn while watching HotJar recordings, like I’m casually taking in an episode of Law & Order: SVU.
- Comprehensive front- and back-end review of existing site
- Pulling reports from Google Analytics
- Reviewing HotJar recordings and heatmaps
- Auditing any available marketing materials
- Organizing team questions or concerns in preparation for Kickoff
- Guiding Client through questions during Kickoff Call
- Finalizing Creative Brief and Project Questionnaire
Strategy
Let's get it started (in here!)
No matter how well-designed, a site can fail if the content strategy is lacking. I work alongside the Content Strategist to develop a sitemap that balances client goals with user needs. Depending on the our approach to content, either guided content blocks or wireframes are created to ensure that all parties are aligned on what content will be included, where it will live, and how components will exist and interact.
- Designs sitemaps according to Content Strategist specifications
- Provides insights from a UX, SEO, ADA or Best Practices perspective
- Crafts content blocks and/or wireframes according to project needs
Design
It's alive!
With the structure and content solidified, it’s time to address the visual design and bring the website to life. My website designs incorporate industry best practices, user experience, ADA standards and SEO tips and tricks. If custom photography or video is needed, I’ll art direct a shoot (alongside a trusted and talented photographer / videographer) that captures the project vision. When the project calls for it, I’ll create custom graphics and icons, and even hand-illustrate elements to bring extra personality and polish.
- Designs high-fidelity prototypes built with user experience in mind
- Provides photography planning, art direction, and coordination
- Illustrates and designs custom graphics according to project needs
Development
Nerd alert — let's GO.
Whether the site is custom-coded or built utilizing a theme/builder, design and functionality are always top of mind. In some cases, I’ll collaborate with developers to craft a final product that is beautiful, intuitive and refined. In other cases, I’ll roll up my sleeves and dive straight into the backend — using a WordPress theme or builder, paired with light CSS, to craft an easy-to-use (and expand) digital experience for my client. Because in my world, what happens behind the scenes is just as important as what users see on the front-end — and it’s tailored to every client.
- Collaborates with various developer partners for handoffs and QA
- Builds directly in WordPress utilizing themes and custom styling
- Manages project team, client feedback, revisions and timelines
Launch and Learn
To infinity — and beyond!
As we prepare for launch, my team and I perform rigorous checks — from mobile performance to ADA compliance. After the site is live, I organize client documentation and perform a personalized training session to empower clients to confidently manage their new site. And even after the project is over, I stay in the wings, waiting to help if needed. If clients have a question or concern, I connect them with the right resource for answers (or record a quick training video how-to!).
- Designs high-fidelity prototypes built with user experience in mind
- Provides photography planning, art direction, and coordination
- Illustrates and designs custom graphics according to project needs
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Visit my professional portfolio to learn more about my current and past website, design, and branding projects.