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Digital design
Digital design principles
Typography
Color
Layouts
Inclusivity
UI-kit
Development
Environment setup
Base code
Theming
CSS utilities
Releases and installation
Building blocks
CA-grid
CA-flex
Header and navigation
Cards
Tables
Footer
Showcase
Development checklist
Use the following checklists to help you when developing an entire site or updating pages.
Planning
Define the website’s purpose and goals.
Identify the target audience.
Research what your target audience needs the most from you.
Choose a domain name and hosting provider.
Create a sitemap outlining the website structure.
Plan the website’s features (e.g., contact forms, tax forms, education benefits).
Design
Prioritize accessibility (e.g., alt-text, readable fonts, keyboard navigation).
Design a wireframe or mockup for the layout.
Ensure responsive design for all devices (mobile, tablet, desktop).
Select a color palette aligned with your brand.
Create engaging visuals (images, videos, icons).
Content creation
Develop an information architecture (IA) to organize the information on your site.
Write clear and engaging content for each page.
Optimize content for SEO (meta titles, descriptions, headings, introductory content).
Include calls-to-action (CTAs) to guide users.
Proofread for spelling and grammar errors.
Development
Set up a Content Management System (CMS) or build a custom framework.
Implement the website structure (pages, menus).
Add necessary features (e.g., forms, shopping carts, user accounts).
Ensure fast page loading times (optimize images, use caching).
Integrate analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics).
Ensure cross-browser compatibility.
Testing
Test website functionality (links, forms, buttons).
Check for responsiveness on all screen sizes.
Conduct cross-browser testing (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.).
Validate HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for errors.
Test for accessibility (e.g., WCAG2.2 AA compliance).
Proofread all content again.
Launch
Set up a custom 404 error page.
Install SSL for a secure connection (HTTPS).
Ensure all SEO settings are configured (sitemaps, robots.txt).
Backup the website before going live.
Notify stakeholders about the launch.
Post-launch life support
Monitor website performance (load times, uptime).
Regularly update content and software/plugins.
Address user feedback promptly.
Run periodic security checks and backups.
Track website analytics to improve user experience.