Let me outline the comprehensive steps of website design/development. I should preface this by saying that every designer/developer is different. Some people only design. Some people only develop. Some people do both. This is my step-by-step process... ( You may ask, why are you giving us your process for free? The reason is simple- it took me 15 + years to perfect it, so if you can replicate it then GOOD FOR YOU!) No gate keeping here. ;)
Discovery Phase
Gather client requirements
Define target audience
Establish project goals
Set budget and timeline
Collect brand assets
Review competitors
Information Architecture
Create sitemap
Plan user flows
Define navigation structure
Organize content hierarchy
Identify key features
Map user journeys
Content Planning
Create content outline
Identify content gaps
Plan content creation schedule
Gather existing content
Define tone and voice
Wireframing
Create low-fidelity sketches
Develop basic layout structures
Map content placement
Design user interface elements
Plan responsive layouts
Identify interaction points
Get client approval on structure
Visual Design (If you lack a brand guideline.)
Create mood board
Develop color scheme
Choose typography
Design UI elements
Create high-fidelity mockups
Get client design approval
Development
Build frontend structure
Implement backend functionality
Integrate required features
Integrate content management system
Ensure responsive design
Implement SEO basics
Content Integration
Upload all content
Format text and images
Optimize media
Check for consistency
Implement meta descriptions
Add alt text for images
Testing
Check functionality
Test responsiveness
Verify forms and links
Check cross-browser compatibility
Test load speed
Validate code
Integrate added security where needed
Launch Preparation
Final client review
SEO implementation
Setup analytics
Configure backups
Test contact forms
Check for broken links
Launch
Deploy to live server
Configure DNS
Test live site
Monitor for issues
Verify functionality
Check analytics tracking functions
Post-Launch
Monitor performance
Address bugs
Gather user feedback
Plan a maintenance schedule
Document site features
Train client on CMS (If training is booked.)
So I have answered the question, " What does a web designer do?" The next question you're probably asking, " How long should it take me to build my own website? "
Someone who is interested in building their own Wix website should expect the following general timeline, though this can vary based on complexity and learning pace... Here are a few situational examples to give you an idea of what you can expect to invest time-wise.
Simple Website (4 or Less pages):
- Learning basic concepts: 1-3 weeks
- Planning and wireframing: 1-3 days
- Building actual site structure: 2-3 weeks
- Adding content and styling: 1-2 weeks
- Testing and refinement: 1-2 weeks
Total: 5-7 weeks
More Complex Website (10+ Pages, Custom Features):
- Learning necessary skills: 2-3 weeks
- Planning and wireframing: 1-2 weeks
- Building structure: 2-3 weeks
- Adding content and styling: 2-3 weeks
- Implementing features: 2-3 weeks
- Testing and refinement: 1-2 weeks
Total: 8-12 weeks
Factors That Can Impact Timeline:
1. Prior technical knowledge
2. Time available to dedicate to learning/building
3. Website complexity
4. Use of website builders vs. coding from scratch
5. Amount of custom features needed
6. Content preparation time
7. Client feedback cycles (if building for someone else)
Tips to Speed Up the Process:
1. Start with a website builder like Wix
2. Use templates rather than starting from scratch
3. Plan content before building
4. Focus on essential features first
5. Get feedback early and often
6. Take advantage of online tutorials and resources
Lastly, consider hiring someone if you're unsure at any point in the process. Remember: Quality takes time, especially when learning. It's better to build a simple, well-functioning website than to rush a complex one that doesn't work properly.
As always, I'm here if you need me. :)

Ally Penrose
Designer/Marketer/Mom/Nerd