Client Engagement Process
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Deployment and Launch
The Deployment and Launch phase is the final stage of the web development process. It involves moving the website from a development environment to a live server and making it accessible to the public. This phase includes several key activities to ensure a smooth and successful launch.
1. Pre-Launch Preparation
To ensure everything is in place and functioning correctly before the website goes live.
- Final Review: Conducting a final review using a pre-launch checklist to ensure all elements are in place, functioning correctly, and meet quality standards.
- Backup of Old Site: Creating a complete backup of the existing website (if applicable) to ensure that data can be restored if needed.
- Client Sign-Off: Obtaining final approval from the client to proceed with the deployment.
2. Server and Hosting Setup
To configure the live server environment to host the website.
- Server Configuration: Setting up and configuring the live server, including installing necessary software, setting up databases, and configuring security settings.
- Domain Setup: Configuring the domain name and DNS settings to point to the new server.
- SSL Certificate Installation: Installing and configuring an SSL certificate to ensure secure data transmission over HTTPS.
3. Deployment
To transfer the website from the development environment to the live server.
- File Transfer: Using FTP/SFTP or other deployment tools to transfer website files and assets to the live server.
- Database Migration: Importing the database from the development environment to the live server and ensuring all data is correctly migrated.
- Configuration Updates: Updating configuration files and settings to match the live server environment.
- WordPress Setup: Ensuring WordPress is properly configured on the live server and all necessary plugins and extensions are installed.
4. Post-Deployment Testing
To verify that the website is functioning correctly in the live environment.
- Functionality Testing: Testing all features and functionalities on the live site to ensure they work as expected.
- Performance Testing: Conducting performance tests to ensure the website loads quickly and performs well under live conditions.
- Security Testing: Performing security checks to ensure the live site is secure and all security measures are in place.
- Cross-Browser and Device Testing: Verifying that the website works correctly across all major browsers and devices.
5. Monitoring and Support
To monitor the website after launch and provide ongoing support to address any issues.
- Monitoring Tools: Setting up monitoring tools to track website performance, uptime, and security. Tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and server monitoring tools can be used.
- Error Monitoring: Implementing error monitoring to catch and address any issues that may arise post-launch.
- Ongoing Support: Providing ongoing support to address any technical issues, bugs, or updates needed after launch for up to 30 days.
- Client Training: Offering training sessions to the client on how to use and manage the new website, including updating content, managing orders (for e-commerce sites), and using analytics tools.
6. Launch Announcement
To inform the public about the new website launch.
- Marketing Plan: Developing and executing a marketing plan to announce the website launch. This can include email campaigns, social media posts, press releases, and other promotional activities.
- User Feedback: Encouraging users to provide feedback on the new website to identify any areas for improvement.
Deliverables
By the end of the Deployment and Launch phase, you will have:
- A fully functional and tested live website accessible to the public.
- A configured server and hosting environment with secure HTTPS connection.
- Verified functionality, performance, and security in the live environment.
- Monitoring tools set up to track website performance and security.
- Ongoing support and maintenance plan in place, if applicable.
- Client training on website management and usage.
- A comprehensive launch announcement plan executed to inform users.
This thorough Deployment and Launch phase ensures that the website is successfully launched, fully functional, and ready to provide a seamless and secure experience to its users.