The Production Process

Teacher | Resources | Prod Issues 2001


  1. Stage One:
      Exploration and Discovery, lets you learn the identity and needs of the client and project. By listening to a client's needs one is able to learn the fundamental aspects of their business and brand identity. Producers, information architects, technologists and designers then investigate everything from content functionality and technology frameworks to graphic design concepts. This stage allows you to help a client focus its new media objectives and produce the basic project plan.

  2. Stage Two:
      Planning, culminates in a detailed blueprint which outlines all project details prior to beginning production. During the planning phase, you will work closely with clients to devise asset lists, functionality specifications, technical requirements and the business logic behind the specific application and database design. The design group begins to develop the basic look and feel upon which the project's user experience rests. The system architects and technologists create the basic logic that will support the scope and functionality of the project. Simultaneously, the information designers build the structural framework that unites the user experience with site functionality and programming parameters. This is typically in the form of a complex site map and a breakdown of the content specifications of each top-level page.

  3. Stage Three:
      Development and Production, involves the actual execution of project deliverables. The design group completes the design of secondary pages in layered graphic files and an overall style guide that sets the site's visual identity. The production group transposes the page designs into functioning web pages, while the system architects complete construction of customized database applications and publishing tools. Finally, a wide variety of other skills such as animation, illustration and sound design are executed to appropriate user experience for the brand identity of each client.

  4. Stage Four:
      Deployment, encompasses the transfer of project deliverables and integration (or creation) of appropriate client-hosting systems. The (QA) Quality Assurance team analyzes all elements of production for accuracy, usability and adherence to project specifications, including the degree to which they achieve the overall desired user experience. You will usually deliver a finalized style guide and technical documentation at the end of this stage.

  5. Stage Five:
      Expansion, Once the production process for a given project is complete, it is wise to constantly seek to enhance and expand the project goals and achievements. Your favorite projects will allow you an on-going sense of ownership and responsibility. This ranges from active development of brand identity and content production to constant adaptation of project deliverables and support for evolving client needs.


© 2001 Bonnie L. Hammer. All rights reserved.