As the adage goes, there is more than one way to skin a cat. This saying holds especially true when it comes to workflow in building a website. Even though there are multiple paths to the same end, though, you can make the flow a lot smoother by using a few important guides. Whether you write code or design websites, there are always ways to streamline your processes, enabling you to work faster and better.
The following are some workflow optimization techniques to consider:
- Start With a Wireframe – Every web project should begin with a wireframe, also known as a screen blueprint or page schematic. A wireframe is a visual guide representing the website’s skeletal framework. It enables you to arrange elements that are needed to create an idea or to inform a business objective. Using a wireframe will allow developers to flesh out their ideas for the layout style, content, and organization of elements on a page, including logo, navigation bar, and CTA buttons. A wireframe starts with a rough layout with minimal details that can be added to over time.
- Plan Copy and Behaviors – After preparing your basic wireframe, the next step is to fill in the details. You can place simple web copy and widgets into your wireframe based on what you believe your users will want to see on your website. Only add content that will be of value to your consumers-not just words to fill the empty spaces. There are different styles of content writing, but make sure the style fits your users. Consider using large headings and page copy, such as bulleted lists, so your website is engaging and easy-to-follow.
- Use Front-end Frameworks – You can save time in building a new website if you use front-end frameworks. Front-end frameworks streamline development and separate complex functions to enable you to use less code when building your site.
- Test and Debug – While browsing quirks are less common today, they still exist. Because of this, testing is essential to development. In addition to browser bugs, there are often problems with the way that browsers render margins, box sizes, patterns, and other properties. The best practice is to check your work in all browsers. Since this can be tedious, consider shortcutting the process by using browser-testing tools such as BrowserStack, Browser Shots, and Browserling.
Rather than getting mired in a confusing and messy website construction process, make a smart plan. It can help save you headaches as you build a visually appealing, easy-to-navigate site that will resonate with your users.
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