The design process for e-commerce sites is inherently adaptable and flexible, allowing us to tailor our approach based on the unique requirements of each project. We understand that no two clients or businesses are alike, and each e-commerce site may have its own distinct goals, target audience, and design preferences. As a result, we initiate each project with in-depth discussions and strategy calls to gain a comprehensive understanding of the client's vision and objectives. Depending on the complexity of the site and the specific functionalities required, additional workshops and flow diagrams may be integrated into the process to address unique challenges effectively. This approach ensures that we deliver a fully customized and optimized e-commerce solution that aligns perfectly with the client's brand identity and meets their desired outcomes.
1. Initial Discussion and Strategy Calls:
The design process begins with in-depth discussions and strategy calls with the client to understand their business objectives, target audience, and specific requirements for the e-commerce website.
2. Homework Document:
After the initial discussions, a comprehensive homework document is provided to the client. This document helps gather detailed information about the brand, its vision, objectives, preferred features, and design preferences. The client provides feedback on the document to further refine the project's direction.
3. Homepage Workshop:
The design team conducts a workshop focused on the homepage design. The workshop involves a thorough exploration of the client's brand identity and aspirations. Insights from analytics tools and research are presented to make informed design decisions. Visual examples and exploration pieces are used to facilitate open discussions and collaboration with the client. The outcome of this workshop is a detailed content map and wireframes for the homepage, ensuring the proper structure is in place before moving on to design.
4. Creative Workshop:
A creative workshop is conducted to delve into the visual treatment of the website. This includes elements such as photography, colour palettes, fonts, and buttons. Different style directions are presented to the client, and their feedback helps refine the styleguide, ensuring a consistent visual identity throughout the site.
5. Styleguide Development:
Based on the outcomes of the creative workshop and client feedback, the design team refines and develops the styleguide. This guide includes a library of reusable components and design elements, ensuring consistency across the entire website.
6. Homepage Design Iteration:
Using the content map and wireframes as a basis, the design team begins the homepage design phase. Multiple design versions are presented to the client, and their feedback is taken into account for further iterations. This iterative process continues until the final design is approved.
7. Component Library:
The approved homepage design serves as a foundation for creating a components library. Approximately eight components are designed and included in the library, allowing for consistent design elements throughout the website.
8. Additional Workshops and Page Designs:
For additional pages or features requiring specific attention, separate workshops are conducted. These workshops address unique challenges and ensure all requirements are met effectively. Content maps, wireframes, and final designs are presented to the client for approval.
9. Navigation and PLP Integration:
Designs for navigation and the Product Listing Page (PLP) are created in design files and then integrated into the design system after client approval. This integration maintains consistent elements like headers and product cards throughout the site.
10. Complex Functionality:
For projects with complex functionality, flow diagrams are used to map out user journeys and interactions. This visualization aids in understanding and communicating intricate aspects of the website.
11. Post-Launch Support and Retainer:
After the completion of the e-commerce website, the client transitions into a retainer phase. This retainer arrangement allows for ongoing support and post-launch work, enabling continuous improvement and updates based on user feedback and evolving needs.