10-Step Process for Community College Website Design & Development

10-Step Process for Community College Website Design & Development

1. Review the Existing Website

• Conduct a comprehensive audit of the current site, identifying UX/UI issues, content gaps, and technical performance concerns.
• Analyze user behavior through Google Analytics, heatmaps, and feedback surveys to pinpoint improvement areas.
• Identify accessibility compliance issues (ADA & WCAG) and opportunities for optimization.

2. Review Reference Websites & Gather Inspiration

• Research best-in-class community college websites to benchmark features, layout, and content strategy.
• Identify industry trends, including mobile-first design, program search tools, and student-centric content.
• Collect input from stakeholders to define visual and functional expectations.

3. Define Main Navigation & Sitemap

• Develop a clear and intuitive site structure that prioritizes user journeys (prospective students, current students, faculty, alumni).
• Optimize the main navigation menu for easy access to key pages (admissions, programs, financial aid, student resources).
• Implement SEO-friendly URL structures and internal linking strategies.

4. Design the Homepage

• Create a visually compelling and conversion-driven homepage with:
  
  • Clear calls to action (CTA) (e.g., Apply Now, Schedule a Visit).
  • Dynamic content sections for events, news, and student testimonials.
  • Optimized hero imagery and messaging reflecting the college’s brand.
• Ensure mobile-first responsiveness using Impreza’s theme builder.

5. Design Interior Page Templates

• Develop custom page templates for high-impact sections such as:
  
  • Academic Programs – Filterable and searchable listings.
  • Admissions & Financial Aid – Clear process breakdowns and easy-to-follow steps.
  • Events & News – Integrated WordPress-based updates and feeds.
  • Student Support & Resources – Essential student services, FAQs, and portals.
• Establish global design consistency across all templates.

6. Move Into Development

• Build out the Impreza-based WordPress site in a staging environment.
• Implement custom features such as:
  
  • Advanced search filters for programs.
  • Event management integration.
  • Faculty directories and student portals.
• Optimize for performance, security, and mobile responsiveness.

7. Migrate Content & Build Out Custom Functionality

• Transfer existing content while refining for clarity, engagement, and SEO.
• Ensure seamless integration of third-party systems (e.g., student portals, CRM, application forms).
• Set up custom functionality where needed, such as form automation or chatbot support.

8. Perform Training & Quality Assurance

• Conduct a comprehensive quality assurance (QA) check, including:
  
  • Cross-browser and mobile compatibility testing.
  • ADA & WCAG accessibility compliance verification.
  • SEO best practices and performance optimization.
• Provide training sessions for college staff on content updates, CMS management, and best practices.

9. Launch the Website

• Execute a soft launch for internal review before public release.
• Set up 301 redirects to prevent broken links and maintain SEO rankings.
• Implement Google Analytics & tracking tools to monitor site activity.

10. Monitor & Optimize Post-Launch

• Continuously track website performance, engagement metrics, and conversions.
• Address any technical issues, user feedback, or content updates as needed.
• Plan for ongoing site enhancements to keep content fresh and relevant.

Why This Process Works for a Community College Website?

✅ Student-Centric Design – Optimized for usability and accessibility.
✅ WordPress & Impreza Flexibility – Easy updates, scalability, and dynamic content management.
✅ SEO & Performance-Optimized – Built for visibility, speed, and engagement.

Would you like a timeline breakdown for each step or additional guidance on implementation? 🚀

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