Website Development Process- An Informative Guide

When building websites, every development path is different. It varies depending on the type of website being created, the programming languages used, the resources available, and other factors. However, they do follow a general process that starts with planning and ends at launching.

Full-stack web development includes both front-end and back-end development. Because it involves building an entire website from start to finish, it requires knowledge and expertise in both domains of web development. If you want to become a full-stack developer to build a business website or eCommerce site, you must learn programming languages for both website development and backend technologies. You should also be familiar with database management systems, repositories, and web architecture.

Website Development Process

1. Planning

The first step in web development is planning the site content and design. Set the goal you want the website to achieve. Identify your audience and the information they would likely look for on your website. Determine the most appropriate structure for your site and the tools you’ll need to build it.

2. Creating a wireframe

A wireframe is a blueprint for your website. It’s more of a graphic tool to help you visualize where texts, images, and other elements will go on your web page. You can use tools like Invision and Mindnode or go old-school and use the good ole whiteboard.

3. Drafting a sitemap

Your website will contain multiple pages which need to be organized and linked together. A sitemap helps you make the entire site navigable by giving you a better view of how pages link together and what categories to use to organize content.

4. Writing the code

To write the code for your website, consider your goal and the functionalities on the site. Choose the coding languages that work well together and that will enable you to build and run the site.

5. Building the back end

The back end may not always be necessary for static websites that do not handle data or require user input. Otherwise, you need to develop a solid back end that can handle front-end functionalities.

6. Building the front end

You’d want your website to be highly engaging so you must design the interface with your audience in mind. Keep in mind though that a very stylized front end can become outdated fast as consumers shift behaviors often.

7. Testing and iterating

Once all codes are in place, you need to test if the site is working properly. You may need to iterate and revise some codes to improve your site’s performance.

8. Launching the website

Once the website is tested and reviewed, you can get a domain name and launch the site. However, it doesn’t end there. Websites need to be maintained and updated once in a while to keep them secure and functioning well.

Three Simple Tips for Web Development Beginners

1. Take it one skill at a time. Don’t try to learn everything all at once, establish a strong foundation by mastering the basics, then focus on learning one skill at a time. This ensures a better understanding and more mastery.

2. One book or course does not make you an expert. Web development entails more than theoretical knowledge. You need to apply your skills and knowledge by building actual websites or taking part in collaborative web development projects.

3. Stay up-to-date. As technology is constantly evolving, it is important to track the latest trends in web development. You should also watch out for news in relevant technologies including multi-cloud, blockchain, and deep learning.

Conclusion

Familiarity with the process will also help you collaborate better with your web development agency. Take time to learn at least the basics, because this will ultimately lead to business growth in the long run.