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Website specification process - step 1

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Please download the website specification process document [.doc 110KB] [.pdf 80KB] to assist you in your own process.

1 Website specification

A specification is a blueprint of the website, upon which all other aspects are built – form, function, metaphor, navigation and interface, interaction, and visual design. This is the first step when designing a website. A good specification is incredibly effective at saving both time and money in the long run. Everyone – users, developers, designers, writers, and the client organization will benefit from this process.

This short document looks at the development of the web design document and the process of specification and site map development.

1.1 Define the site’s goals

A formal definition involves calling meetings with the key players – prepare an agenda and questions in advance. It is a time-intensive process and is very demanding of project management skills.

1.1.1 Ask questions

  • What is the mission or purpose of the organization?
  • What are the short- and long-term goals of the site?
  • Who are the intended audiences?
  • Why will people come to your site?
  • What is the tone of voice you want your site to have?
  • What overall impression do you want your site to have?

1.2 Design document: Site goals

Once there is agreement from everyone involved, document the goals of the site and publish them. The list of goals is the basis for the web design document.

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