Planning: Pay Now or Pay Later
The planning, or pre-production, phase of web development is the most important element in the web development process. This is when we formalize the scope and purpose of the site, decide on how the goal will be reached and budget the time and money.
If you get this phase right, the rest will run much more smoothly. Many developers, myself included, suggest spending from one-third to one-half of the project's time and budget until the launch on pre production.
Now Is Cheaper Than Later
Unless you've gone through producing a web site before, it may be difficult to swallow the expense without seeming to have tangible results to show for it.
Trying to save the expense is a false economy. Without planning you lose these benefits:
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Planning speeds delivery
Both the development team and the client know exactly what needs to be done, how to do it, and who's responsible. There is less oportunity for error and mis-communication, and there no time wasted on elements that aren't needed.
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Planning improves the overall quality
Time spent on planning allows a more comprehensive view of user needs and client expectations.
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Planning saves money
Errors are costly. Planning allows time to research and specify cost effective solutions.
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Planning improves long term outlook
If there is time for more stakeholders to contribute early on, there is more buy-in, understanding and commitment to making their project work. Wider input leads to a better expectation of longterm success.