How to write a proper brief for your website redesign and build

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Embarking on the journey of building a new website for your business is undeniably an exciting prospect. The anticipation of leaving behind the frustrations with your current site and stepping into a realm of enhanced user experience and functionality can be invigorating. However, the enthusiasm often encounters a roadblock when it comes to finding the right web development agency. The vague request of “please build me something better” may seem like a good starting point, but as the person tasked with initiating the project, you quickly realize that it’s not enough.

The process of building a new website can be technical, and navigating through unfamiliar terms and considerations can be overwhelming. From delving into aspects that were never contemplated before to grappling with design decisions involving color palettes, branding, images, and fonts, the complexities can be daunting. Yet, by focusing on a few key considerations initially, you can craft a comprehensive brief for your agency, igniting the project with confidence.

To help you shape your brief effectively, here are thought-starters divided into two main areas: technical considerations and design elements.

Technical Considerations

  1. Goals and Objectives: Clearly outline your objectives for the new website and any specific goals you aim to achieve.
  2. Functionality Requirements: Define the essential features and functionalities your website needs to have.
  3. Target Audience: Identify and understand your target audience to tailor the website to their preferences and needs.
  4. Content Management System (CMS): Specify your preference for a CMS and any specific requirements related to content management.
  5. Mobile Responsiveness: Emphasize the importance of mobile responsiveness, considering the prevalence of mobile searches.

Design Elements

  1. Color Palettes and Branding: Provide insights into your preferred color palettes and how your brand identity should be reflected.
  2. Imagery and Visual Style: Describe the type of images and visual style that align with your brand and resonate with your audience.
  3. Typography: Discuss your preferences for fonts and typography that complement your brand image.
  4. User Experience (UX): Outline your expectations for a seamless and intuitive user experience on the website.
  5. Competitor Analysis: Share your opinions on other websites that have caught your eye, contributing to the overall vision.

While more detailed discussions will follow with the developers and designers, organizing your thoughts into these sections provides an excellent starting point for meaningful conversations. Remember, a successful brief is rich in information, encompassing details about your current site, your objectives, and even uncertainties that might provide valuable context.

Whether your project is extensive or more modest, dividing the brief into sections and addressing key questions is a practical way to initiate the process. Discover more about our services and feel free to reach out to begin this exciting journey.