how we work
Castorgray takes the view that the way we work should be the way you want us to work. We will work openly and efficiently ensuring transparency and honesty at all times.
Our open-working methodology means you will always know the status of the project giving you peace of mind throughout the project.
We are also able to tailor our production process to your needs so if you require any further information just give us a call.
initial interview: defining the project
The initial interview is probably the most important step in the process. It is here that your requirements are defined and specified. Each website has it's own unique requirements and it is essential that these are correctly identified so that the project runs smoothly and achieves your goals. To help us both identify your requirements, we have put together a 'Client Worksheet' that will help capture all the necessary details about your project.
view client worksheetAt Castorgray, we are accustomed to the special requirements of our clients and will take our time in making sure the initial interview is a great experience for you. Finding the right setting is especially important. The interview should always take place in an environment that is conducive to open and easy communications - whether this be your offices or local hotels, even in your local if you prefer! The point is that the more comfortable you are with the environment the better the communication.
information architecture: sitemaps and wireframes
The next step is to analyse our notes from the meeting and organise the information into an architecture and layout that will best suite your requirements. The end result is a blueprint or wireframe of what you website will look like and what information will be held in each page.
The Blueprints are free from graphics so the layout and usability of the website takes priority. This wireframe approach means that we are able to 'fast prototype' your website and so provide you with fastest possible feedback and insight into how your website will appear when complete. This is just another example of our open approach to web design.
graphic design
You will probably find the design of the look and feel of your website to be the most interesting area of the whole process. Castorgray are experienced in user-interface design from a number of different spheres, so no matter how complicated your requirements, we will be able to provide a distinct, efficient and, most importantly, usable solution to your web needs.
If any of the designs you see interest you, get in touch.
website construction and coding
Your website will now be constructed. This will be the amalgamation of the Blueprints and the graphical designs developed for your site. Castorgray uses standards-compliant tableless CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) wherever possible to provide you with a flexible and accessible website. Our knowledge and expertise can shield you from the future problems that poor design implementations can cause. We keep abreast of the latest web trends so that your site leads by example.
testing and quality assurance
One of the most important steps in the whole process is testing. Releasing a website without due testing can lead to serious problems, not only to the website but to how your business and professionality is perceived through your site. Castorgray understand this problem fully and have a great deal of experience in Quality Assurance from many diffierent industries.
We test all of our websites in all of the available browsers and we take pride in the quality of our work. Whoever you hire to design (or redesign) your website make sure that you ask them about testing and QA for your own peace of mind.
website launch
Your website is now ready to launch. We will have a last review meeting with you (or perform this online) to make sure the website is exactly as you want it before we go live. Full testing is performed on the site prior to launch so that there will be no nasty surprises when the site goes live.
Castorgray wants the launch of your new website to a very enjoyable event, one that marks the start of a new relationship between our companies rather than the end of a project.
post launch support
Castorgray will support your website in it's new life online. We will provide you with statistics on how well your website is performing online and how your clients are using it.
Castorgray employ Google Analytics to help you understand how your website is being used. Google Analytics tells you everything you want to know about how your visitors found you and how they interact with your site. You'll be able to focus your marketing resources on campaigns and initiatives that deliver ROI, and improve your site to convert more visitors.
Additional support in uploading content and making website amendments and updates is always available.