DotContent develops, implements and host professional turnkey content management solutions for all types of businesses, organisations, institutions and groups using FluentNET, its powerful flagship content management system software.
DotContent takes care of the entire development process, from the initial investigation and design stage to implementation, testing, training, and initial content loading.
DotContent also provides continuing post-implementation support and backup services to ensure the smooth operation and integrity of the website.
Stages Of A DotContent Project Development Cycle
Investigation
The process kicks off with an investigation of a client's website requirements and current website content (if applicable). A suitable structure is developed together with the client to describe the website content in the most meaning and useful way. This structure is later used to define the topics and containers that hold the required content categories. All system extensions are also identified at this stage.
Customisation
Specific non-standard requirements are also investigated to prepare for any special system customisation that may be required. Any customisation requirements identified during this stage will result in the customisation development commencing immediately to proceed while the graphic design stage is in progress.
Graphic Design
The graphic design stage is undertaken by a professional designer who liases with the client to get an idea of the type of site the client would like to project. The process involves the creation of several mockups embodying the graphic design principals worked out with the client, and ends with a layout and design that exactly meets the preferences expressed by the client.
Theme Development
The graphic design model is passed on to a theme developer to define the navigation and create the look and feel of the site. The theme defines a site's unique identity and is the primary method of separating the site's look-and-feel from the business logic and content. This important stage ensures that the graphic design is translated pixel-perfectly into a unique working website ready for configuration and population. Any customisation development that may have begun in the first stage is completed.
Site Configuration
Once the theme development and system customisation is completed, the extension modules identified during the investigation stage are prepared and applied to the site. The system is then configured according to the user requirements, and the user groups and site structures defined during the investigation stage are set up. The site is then tested to ensure that every aspect of the new site is working correctly.
Training
Two days of training is provided as part of the standard project delivery. Training is undertaken at the client's site if feasible, or at DotContent's offices. Any number of people can be trained, within reason, and no special pre-requisite skill is required before training starts other than basic computer literacy.
Content Loading
Once the new website has been configured and tested and training completed, the initial content loading can begin. Any content on existing sites is transferred to the new site and fresh content is added. This is an ideal stage for the new trainees to work together with DotContent and get valuable hands-on experience dealing with real content and real site issues, without the concerns of working on a live site.
Launch
After the loading stage is completed, a final test is performed, any outstanding domain updates or registrations are completed, and the site is officially launched.
Post Implementation Review
After the site has been launched and allowed to bed down for a week or two, DotContent conducts a post-implementation review with the client to assess the success of the development and implementation process, confirm that all the specified requirements were addressed, and identify any further developments or requirements that may be needed.
Ongoing Support, Maintenance and Enhancements
DotContent provides all backup and support services, and free system upgrades as they become available. DotContent also participates in any additional customisations or extensions that may be required, as well as theme changes and additional theme developments that may be requested.
