Like cost, the time it takes to build a website depends on what you need. A focused business site comes together much faster than a large shop or a custom web application. What's often more useful than a single number is understanding the stages, and what affects each one.
The stages of a website project
1. Discovery
We talk through your goals, your customers and what the site needs to do. This sets the scope and avoids surprises later.
2. Design
I design the key pages and the building blocks the rest of the site will use. You review the designs and give feedback before anything gets built.
3. Development
The approved designs are built into a working website, with a content management system so you can update it yourself.
4. Content and testing
Content goes in, and the site is tested across devices and browsers. This is also where details such as forms, redirects and analytics get checked.
5. Launch
The site goes live, and I keep an eye on things in the days after launch to make sure everything's working as it should.
What slows projects down
In my experience, the build itself is rarely the cause of delays. The most common reasons are:
Content that isn't ready. Waiting for text and images is the biggest cause of delays.
Slow feedback. Every stage needs your input, and long gaps add up.
Changing scope. New features part-way through mean redesigning and rebuilding.
Too many decision-makers. Agree who signs things off before the project starts.
How to keep your project on track
Start gathering content as soon as the project is agreed
Book time in your diary to review designs and the test site
Keep feedback in one place, from one person
Save new ideas for a second phase rather than adding them mid-build
Getting a timeline for your project
Once I understand what you need, I'll give you a realistic timeline with a clear plan for each stage, and keep you updated throughout. If you're planning a new site, take a look at my web design and web development services.
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