Important steps to managing a successful user experience online
Discovery
Define the goals of the new site based on business requirements, analysis, research and user requirements.
Site Architecture & Content Strategy
Create a site architecture map to visually demonstrate how the site content and structure will be organized. Continue by developing wire frames to guide creative development, craft content, sell to business owners and outline development needs. Consider search requirements and how metrics will be placed to track and measure goals of the site.
User Interface Design/Rapid Prototyping
Develop site template styles based on wire frame development. Design should meet the goals of the brand and provide a visual hierarchy that will enable easy user-flow throughout the site.
Content Development
In parallel with the design process, gathering content and content approval. Content matrix created based on site map and wireframe documentation.
Development/Prototype
Upon approval of the final site design, and content, the entire site developed based on the approved site architecture.
User Acceptance Testing
Create user test scenarios and test site in test environment.
Post Launch
Aggressive search engine marketing campaigns to ensure successful search return. Update and improve site on a regular basis.