Build Phase
By this stage, there should be a clear set of instructions on how the website should be built so that the technician can build the website with as little pause or waiting for content or clarification.
What is the build phase?
The build phase is where the developer knuckles down and builds the website with the least amount of interference.
In practice, there are always pauses and extra instructions, but they should be minimized by freezing the scope and making sure the visual plan was executed completely.
Collaborative development (alternative build approach)
Instead of having a strict build phase, a lot of projects are built in a collaborative way with the client.
These projects are difficult to manage and so extra quality control measures should be taken throughout the project.
Things that drag down Build Phase efficiency
- Developers don’t have access to clear instructions.
- There is no content that the developer can copy and paste.
- Developers are not given deadlines.
- Developers do not QA their own work.
- Developers aren’t given a complete handover chat.
- Developers didn’t check what they are given to make sure everything is there before they begin.
- The functional prototype wasn’t thorough enough.
- The dev site wasn’t set up ahead of time.
How to build up developer momentum and ownership
- Assign a single developer to building the website.
- Give them a due date
- Review the instructions with them and don’t allow them to start until they are clear.
- Ensure the developer feels comfortable and knows that their work must be Quality Assured before handing back.
- Get someone to check their work early on.