Goals of the Re-Design Process

Re-designing a website is more than just giving it an improved new look. The successes and shortcomings of the existing site are invaluable in knowing how to truly improve the site and make the re-design worth the time, effort, and cost.

Like any site design/development, a clear set of goals and purposes should be established to direct the project. Without knowing specifically why the site is being re-designed or what needs to be improved, you may wind up with a better looking design, but it is unlikely to be more effective for the business or for the users.

I’m currently in the very early stages of re-designing a website for a client that needs a fresh look and some usability improvements. The client is a service provider and the existing site has been effective at attracting new business, but the site has grown and usability has suffered because the navigation can be difficult, and because the most important content isn’t consistently prioritized and featured throughout the site. In general, the site could be more effective for both users and for the business. The design needs to be updated and the income-generating services that drive the business need to clearly be the focal point of the website.

This situation has led me to evaluate the re-design process and how it should be approached for both the designer and the client/website owner. Throughout the post we’ll look at some steps and key points in the process and why they have a big impact on the end result.

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