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Maximizing Your Website’s Digital Impact with Web Development

Web development may sound intimidating, but with an expert team and a few special tools, your website’s digital impact can leave a lasting impression on clients. Let’s start with the basics…

What is Web Development?

Web development is the process of building websites, web applications, and online stores. It combines programming, design, and content creation to create a digital presence on the Internet. Just think of it this way: Everything you see when exploring your favorite brands’ websites was made by a web developer and a UX-UI team. 

Why Does Web Development Matter?

Your website is often the first impression customers have of your brand. A well-designed and easy-to-use site builds trust and encourages people to use your services or buy your products. In today’s competitive market, a strong online presence is essential for success.

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The Web Development Process

  1. Research

The first step of web development is research. Our team spends dedicated time looking at competitors and the industry landscape.

2. Website Asset Collection

Next, our team creates a list of needed web assets depending on the individual client, such as photos or product information.

3. Homepage Design

Then, we create a homepage design and get approval. This homepage design drives the entire website’s development. 

4. Full Site Creation

After research, asset collection, and approval of the homepage, our web team works to build out the additional pages on the website. These pages typically include an About page, a Contact page, and a Product or Service page. 

We recommend other pages based on specific industries and the goals of our clients. At the end of the day, that is why we create websites— to drive traffic, increase your brand visibility, and ultimately improve your company’s bottom line.

Other actions within this step include site search engine optimization (SEO), technical improvements, and documentation. 

5. Make the Website Live

Once the website is created, we go through a few rounds of revisions with the client to ensure information is accurate and design is on-par with the client’s standards. If all goes according to plan, the site goes live!

898 Marketing’s Recommended Web Development Tools

  • WordPress 

WordPress is a popular content management system used for building websites and managing online content. 898 Marketing utilizes WordPress because of the program’s capabilities to fully customize websites via plugins, themes, and editing tools.

  • WooCommerce and/or Shopify for E-Commerce Sites 

For e-commerce sites, we have two avenues we suggest for clients: WooCommerce and Shopify. WooCommerce is a widely-used WordPress plugin that empowers users to create customizable e-commerce websites. Shopify is a standalone e-commerce platform known for its user-friendly interface and extensive features. We utilize both for e-commerce depending on the client. 

  • Elementor

We recommend using Elementor as the page builder for websites. Elementor allows for custom designs that are fully representative of our client’s brands.

Our Web Team’s Recommended Educational Resources

  • YouTube Courses 

For any beginner web developer, the best place to start is YouTube. With thousands of videos, the learning threshold is endless. 

  • Marketing Agency Internships

Another excellent learning opportunity is through a web development internship, which fosters a culture of growth, especially at 898 Marketing! We provide web internships based on demand, and interested individuals are encouraged to apply by completing our contact form with their details.

Industry Gurus to Follow

  • Wes McDowell

Wes McDowell is an industry guru who provides his best website and digital marketing secrets to increase website traffic and results. 

  • Rino de Boer

Rino de Boer’s YouTube channel has a variety of thoughtful videos with valuable insights into web development and design.

Overview of Website Development

As you can tell, web development is a multifaceted discipline that plays a critical role in shaping the online presence of businesses large and small. By understanding the importance of web development and leveraging the right tools and resources, you can create compelling digital experiences that resonate with your audience and drive success for your brand.