How Web Design for Charities Works
Web design can be a tricky and strange world. Who do you trust? Just google “web designer” (PLEASE DON’T DO THIS!) How much does it cost?! WAIT..what!?
Listen, it can be a slippery world out there which is why I try to be as transparent as possible (and its why I advocate for you to do the same so your donors see YOUR honesty).
My site does a pretty good job of breaking down each of the timelines and processes for my larger packages but I wanted to take the time today to explore what a design process looks like from the big picture.
TODAY/ AS SOON AS YOU NEED HELP
Reach out by APPLYING for a package spot or contacting me directly for a different need.
CONSULT, DATE SECURE + SIGN
After we touch base via email and make sure we are all set, we will set a time to do a quick 30min consult. On this call we will talk all about your non-profit. We will figure out what you would like for your donors and visitors to be able to do on your website as well as what a redo or new build would mean for your cause. If everything looks great on both sides, we will then schedule a project start date based on both calendars. This is usually 2-3 weeks out after our call as you will need some time to gather the items I need to deliver a rockstar website for you. AFTER THE CALL, I will send a project contract with all the boring legal bits that protect each of us. A signed contract and paid deposit secure your project date on my calendar.
A WEEK BEFORE PROJECT START
7 days before your project start date, your homework is due. I will check in and make sure we are on track for an easy start and schedule our kick off call if applicable for your package. Homework that is due at this point usually includes access to your existing website (if applicable), min of 30 images, png + vector logos (if applicable) branding homework, writing prompts homework and integrations access {SEE THIS IS WHY WE GIVE YOU A FEW WEEKS TO GATHER}.
STRATEGY CALL + BRANDING / MESSAGING
STEP 1 varies across my packages as far as timeline and what happens when. However, most of the time this step is reserved for our strategy development, making sure I have your wishlist of items and I have nailed down your branding parameters. From there, I work on messaging and content development. Depending on the package, we review my work and feedback is given.
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· Tuesday (Logo Design Revisions due inbox by Wednesday 9AM MST)
· Thursday (Web and Connections Revisions due inbox by Friday 9AM MST)
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· End of Week 2 (Messaging + Copy Revisions due inbox by following Monday 9AM MST)
· End of Week 3 (Website Structure Revisions due inbox by following Monday 9AM MST)
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· End of Phase 2 (Branding + Messaging Revisions due inbox by following Monday 9AM MST)
· End of Phase 3 (Website Structure Revisions due inbox by following Monday 9AM MST)
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Each of these services receive 1 round of revisions due 24 business hours after contractor provides client proofs. Again, if no edits are sent back via email or Loom/screencast, contractor assumes client has seen proof and proof is approved "as is" and passed off. Additional revisions outside of the revision times will occur a fee of $50 each change.
WEB SITE STRUCTURE
Again, STEP 2 will vary across different packages, but it generally leads to website structure. This is when I look at what is imperative, wish list and not needed. What serves you and your donors? What communicates your cause and need, your impact and what is actually hurting you?
WEB SITE DESIGN + INTEGRATIONS
Finally, STEP 3 will vary across different packages, but this is where I ensure your site is connected and functioning so you can get back to changing the world. Applying your integrations and verifying they are “firing” correctly takes one more thing off your to-do list.
FINAL EDITS, QA + LAUNCH
This is where I apply any adjustments you have sent back, sure your SEO stays intact with 301 redirects, connect Google Search Console, submit a Sitemap and get you ready for a launch. We will also have a Final Launch Call where I TEACH you how to use your site and provide your final files of any custom graphics I have created, your logo, branding standards etc.
