- Introduction
- Phase 1: Defining the Project
- Phase 2: Developing Site Structure
- Phase 3: Visual Design and Testing
- Phase 4: Production and QA
- Phase 5: Launch and Beyond
- Prepare for Scope Creep
- Track Your Hours
- Get Signed Approvals
- Combat Content Delay
- Incorporate Smart Design
- Incorporate Usability Testing
- Conduct a Competitive Analysis
- About this Article
Incorporate Smart Design
Smart Design serves the user's environment and capabilities. Smart Design is functional and fast loading. It is focused on the user's experience rather than on the ambitions of the designer, the desire to use Flash, the positioning of the company's advertisers, or even the personal quirks of the CEO of the client's company. If it detracts from the user, it is not Smart Design even if it is cool. How do you practice Smart Design? Simple. Think like the user. Browse, click, and download like the user. Incorporate your information design rather than fight it.