Web Application Methodology

Firstserv's programming team has been working together since 1999 and has built up a large store of knowledge and systems which cut programming time and increase functionality and code quality.

Our ColdFusion knowledge and close links with our hosting team have meant that Adobe have chosen to promote us as their main UK partner. We are one of only a few recommended hosts listed on the Adobe, formally Macromedia website.

Our working method follows these stages, which have been developed from our experience and acknowledged best practice:

Specification

This is regarded as the most important stage in the process. Concepts and ideas are defined more clearly. Users are interviewed, data is gathered and a detailed specification is produced which includes screen shots and flowcharts. Firstserv uses its experience to make suggestions to clients regarding feasibility of customers' ideas.

Time and budget are defined at this stage. Budgets are calculated based on the time taken to program the site.

Due to our extensive store of programming code, we can work efficiently. In one case our quote was half that of a competitor, even though they were based off shore and quoting and hourly rate of 1/3 of ours.

Changes to the site functionality are best made at this time.

Wireframe

A plan of the site is produced which shows how it will link together, although the functionality of the site is not programmed at this stage.

For simpler projects, this step may be omitted.

Prototype and Coding

The functionality of the site is coded at this stage.

Testing

The production site is launched onto a staging server to enable testing to be carried out for security, loading and usability.

Launch

When testing is complete, the site is launched. The new site is monitored closely. All code written becomes the property of the customer on receipt of final payment.

Updates, Maintenance and Training

Websites are not static publications, but should evolve as the needs of the users change. Content may be changed, new sections and functionality may be added. Firstserv works in partnership with clients to help improve their sites.

The maintenance aspect of the site build includes running (hosting) it. We will also provide manuals and training to users of the site where necessary.

W3C Specifications and Guidelines

Our development team uses tools and follows guidelines set out by the The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to ensure that applications that are easy to maintain, are accessible to persons with disabilities, and conform to usability guidelines set out by local governments and authorities (e.g. WCAG 1.0, Bobby, Section 508).

Adobe Certified Developers

Each member of our programming team has undertaken rigorous training to be qualified with Adobe Advanced Certified Developer status.

Quotations are provided on request. Please contact us with your requirements and we will be pleased to help.

enquiries@firstserv.com
+44 (0)20 7536 7930

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