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Quoting Websites is very difficult

Quoting a website, and the Problems with it.Updated 3 years ago

Many projects begin with a client wanting the simplest site in the world. They plan 1 or 2 pages, and a very small budget and time constraints. Unfortunately, this (very-often)(quickly) evolves into a much larger project, with an unexpected budget or timeline. Experienced Web Developers see this happen often in their careers. The following page is to help them keep their clients happy, and projects flowing smoothly.

Quoting a website (and the Problems with it).

  • Scope Screep
    (AKA: Requirement / Function / Feature Creep, or Kitchen Sink Syndrome)
    Refers to changes, continuous or uncontrolled growth in a project's scope, at any point after the project begins.
    is very real problem.
  • Much of the work/labour is the planning of the site.
  • A good programmer can do almost anything, understand the amount of time
    Almost-Anything is do-able if you have the Budget+time
    (that you will be billed for) each feature will take.
  • Target your priorities to mission-critical tasks
    This will allow you to get business/income coming in ASAP.
    .

For the Smoothest, Quickest, Cheapest Website Process. Do the Following before hiring a Web Designer:

  • Have every page listed. Start with the Menu
  • Have all information typed-out electronically
  • Have all images scanned
  • List out every field required for any forms.
  • Hand drawn sketches
    Nothing Complicated
    of each page
  • Break up your tasks into Must-haves, and Optional.
    Allows you to get something up ASAP, and within budget. Then later add the bells and whistles.
  • Have a list of people(even volunteers) lined-up to proofread + test the site as it grows.

During Development:

  • Check your growing site whenever your developer notifies you of changes.
  • Provide a single, long list of changes/corrections--rather than many emails with a few changes each.

Client

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Your Web Designer Wants you to know.:

  • The Internet, and webpages are constantly-evolving projects. A gradual, on-going roll-out and testing is ideal.
  • Some changes/features require a small amount of work. Others require a huge amount.

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