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A Methodical Approach
No two projects evolve in exactly the same way, but you'd probably like to have some idea as to how we typically work our way through a project.
This methodical approach ensures that a project's purposes are well defined and that predefined objectives are met. For some this may seem like a lot of prep work, but rest assured that we can move quickly and efficiently through such important work. As the age old adage goes, "measure twice, cut once!"
Project Development Process
Here's a summary of the stages in a typical development process.
1. Needs Assessment
Right off the bat you'll probably want to know what you can expect to pay for our services. After an initial discussion we can give you ball park figures, but for more specific pricing we'll need to know more about your expectations for the project - from which we'll be able to produce a quotation for your consideration.
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Targets:
- Project scope
- Mutual responsibilities
- Production timelines
- Fees and terms of payment
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Deliverables:
- Detailed quotation / proposal
- Contract / Letter of Agreement
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2. Project Objectives
Once you've contracted our services, we'll first get down to the business of mutually refining the project's objectives and scope.
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Targets:
- Establish marketing or training goals and strategic objectives
- Review existing communications / branding assets
- Review competitors' related efforts
- Define make-up and preferences of target audience
- Target desired audience action / reaction
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Deliverables:
- Project, marketing or training plan
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3. Project Specifications
Next we'll assemble a development strategy or framework upon which subsequent details can be planned, assembled and assessed.
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Targets:
- Refine development schedule
- Detail media specifications and requirements
- Define major content areas
- Chart information architecture and flow
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Deliverables:
- Specifications document
- Script outline / synopsis
- Initial content flowchart / sitemap
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4. Concept Development and Design
Prototype designs and layouts (in the case of Web, CD-ROM or print projects) as well as sample texts are then presented for client review and approval. In some cases (especially video projects) storyboards may also be presented.
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Targets:
- Prototype art direction
- Prototype copy development
- Storyboarding
- Scriptwriting
- Refinement of prototypes
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Deliverables:
- Prototype design(s) and layouts for each level of information hierarchy, as well as sample texts. Or in the case of a video project, storyboards, shot list and script.
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5. Production
Once a design scheme has been decided upon, we launch into construction of the site, title or document - culminating in the finished work. During this stage the client is given regular interim progress reports - and is invited to 'look over our shoulder' as the work progresses towards its completion.
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Targets:
- Finalization of print layouts, video production, web pages and/or interactive screens and components
- Integration of back-end technology (database integration, e-commerce applications etc.)
- Quality control and compliance testing
- Debugging
- Web site hosting arrangements
- Client review and revisions
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Deliverables:
- Finished document, video, web site, or interactive title, ready for release. Pre-press ready files, if it's a print document, cd-rom or video, leading to final mass reproduction.
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6. Post Production
While print, video and CD-ROM projects culminate in the delivery of a tangible piece, Internet projects often continue beyond delivery of final files to the client. The dynamic nature of web-based media encourages regular updates, revisions, and improvements.
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Targets:
- Update planning and strategy
- Maintenance arrangements
- Archiving and data backup
- Training of client's staff, maintenance and update procedures
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Deliverables:
- Updates, revisions, and improvements
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