How to Make Checklists for Web Projects

Use a checklist to track your progress.

Web projects entail a high degree of specifications, details and work to make something as simple as a Web page or online store fully functional. If you've been hired for a Web project, you want to do the best job possible to satisfy your client or supervisor. By starting every project with a Web project checklist, you record all the small details and tasks that must be included for the successful completion of the project.

Instructions

1. Schedule a meeting with your client or supervisor to talk about the scope of the project. You'll need to discuss specifics of the project, including a project deadline, what the client expects as the end result and any information or participation you need to acquire images, text and other components of the project. This gives you a general outline of the steps you need to take to complete the project.

2. Break the project down into four or five stages to create a better picture of what needs to be done during the process. Stages could include preliminary design, coding, testing and registration for a website. This gives you the opportunity to focus on one stage at a time for a more thorough job overall.

3. Create a checklist for each stage of the project that you've specified. For instance, the preliminary design stage could include steps such as client consultation, storyboards, research, mock designs and client approval. For each stage, list all that needs to be done to complete the stage completely before moving onto the next stage. Make the document in a word processing program so it's easy to access and modify.

4. Delegate project tasks according to the checklist. With a thorough checklist on hand, it's simple to see what has and hasn't been done and what others could do to lighten your load. Distribute a copy of the checklist and keep a master copy with the project manager. As tasks are completed, update the rest of the team on which parts of the project have been completed and which need more focus.

5. Track your progress using the checklist. As you complete items and check them off your list, meet with your client or supervisor to talk about the completion of the project. It may help to communicate with the client at the end of each specific stage to confirm that you're on track to a satisfied customer when it comes to the design and functionality of the project.

References

• "Web Project Management: Delivering Successful Commercial Web Sites"; Ashley Friedlein