UX Design 1: How To Design a Website: Site Audit

[@soso117]

I'm learning from your channel more than I have learned in 4 years of design school.

[@thefutur]

Thank you

[@SurpassPh]

@@thefutur The fact that you are responding to comments after about 4 years of uploading the video, shows just how different you are. Your videos will be relevant for so many years to come. Congratulations!

[@iftekharulhaque2697]

@@thefutur Did you guys make the personas used in this video through research, or brainstorming ideas?

[@scaleyourchannel]

There's a reason one of the most popular web design books is called "Don't Make Me Think": people don't like being overwhelmed with choices, and will bounce. No matter who a company's clients are, so long as they are human they'll appreciate a simple web experience over a complex one.

[@Belwoorf]

Man I miss these episodes with Jose and Chris. They had a great vibe together. It would be so cool to see him come back for an episode and talk UX.

[@harrietc.1404]

Can I just say....that the quality of this video....IS AMAZING.

[@thefutur]

+Harriet Cacdac Yes. I think you just did. : )

[@thefutur]

+Behroze Choudary are you sure? Wasn't sure if anyone noticed. My mom thinks I'm so bright she calls me son.

[@behrozechoudary6190]

+The Skool Network

[@thefutur]

+Behroze Choudary thanks! Will do.

[@blaiseposmyouck]

I thought it was Chris

[@mleva18]

Great video! As Jeffrey Zeldman says, “Content precedes design. Design in the absence of content is not design, it’s decoration.” You always have to address copy early on. Before doing a redesign that is something that gets audited and discussed and is part of the redesign.

[@AkinGundogan]

Even while working with the agencies, some clients give literally word documents and expect them to be converted in some sort of semi-visual content, so great point Jose, you should talk this matter with client at the very beginning.

[@StandeWijs]

Hey guys, awesome show again. Thanks! In response to the content issue, I think both of you are right. In my experience when someone is looking to redesign their website they are usually talking about the look and feel of the site and probably never even thought about changing the content. However, in case I think something needs to be done with anything other than redesigning the general design of a website, even when the client didn’t mention it, I will bring it up anyway. Eventually the written part of a website or the placement of images accompanying a text is also part of the design. What works well for me for redesign projects is reviewing the existing site together with the client during the first interview. Just a quick first observation to understand well what the client needs and how I would be able to help. In case I notice outdated, too little or too much content I’ll recommend to do something with it (rewrite, relocate, write more, etc.) which can be done by them or through me (I would hire someone for that). What is important is that the client understands why you are talking about stuff they didn’t come to you for initially. You’ll have to make sure that you can explain (if needed with proof) why you recommend that. Maybe they didn’t know or never gave it any thought, and besides that it creates trust and shows that you know what you’re talking about. Even if the wife wrote the awesome outdated, keywordless text, they are most likely grateful for the recommendation and probably act on it. This is what I learned along the way and works well in delivering a more complete service/product and probably happy visitors of their site :)

[@thefutur]

+Stan de Wijs well said. Thanks for commenting.

[@bryanjimenez1025]

IMO, redesigning a website should always require a refinement in content. The content is a part of the user experience, as is the visual aspect. I think the problem starts at the beginning, with how the project is sold. If its sold as "design" project (visual facelift) the problem of bad copy will be there, since "design" normally doesn't include extensive copy. If the project is sold as a more complete strategic business solution to a business problem then the revision of content is implied (directly or indirectly). I can't see how an adjustment of the digital brand experience (web) excludes the adjustment of copy. Just my two cents.

[@GrouEEf]

this. i worked in a Webdesign Startup that suffers from mismanagement. one of the core issues was that the boss, who did the Business relations, just didn't convince the clients to refine their content. That meant massive constrictions for me as the Designer. They wanted me to keep the same amount of information and bloat on the first Viewport of the landing page and just make it pretty. well, obviously that didn't work out and I had to rework my mockups a thousand times until finally the boss was convinced that my concerns were legit in the first place. The company went broke now, if they had just read and understood your comment that wouldn't have happened. :D

[@GrouEEf]

this. i worked in a Webdesign Startup that suffers from mismanagement. one of the core issues was that the boss, who did the Business relations, just didn't convince the clients to refine their content. That meant massive constrictions for me as the Designer. They wanted me to keep the same amount of information and bloat on the first Viewport of the landing page and just make it pretty. well, obviously that didn't work out and I had to rework my mockups a thousand times until finally the boss was convinced that my concerns were legit in the first place. The company went broke now, if they had just read and understood your comment that wouldn't have happened. :D

[@Sald8Trin]

Yeah, Good graphics sell better if they have good headlines attached to them and vice versa

[@chaddpoggenpoel3304]

I think your comment changed the way these guys approach these problems today sir.

[@OnyeStephen]

THIS VIDEO STILL RELEVANT TO THIS DAY! AND I STILL COME BACK HERE FROM TIME TO TIME TO WATCH IT

[@cmeisteronline]

This video is gold because instead of talking about theoretical projects you are showing a real client and what you actually did for them and how you did it. Love to see more of this. I'd like to see this particular project thoroughly discussed from the initial meeting, proposal, strategy, design, etc to completion. Tall order I know. :)

[@thefutur]

follow the Ole's case study. We have most of what you are asking for.

[@cmeisteronline]

I see, yes there are more videos on this project. I guess I couldn't tell from the titles. Sorry, I came to the Futur a bit late. :)

[@mgoodkin]

I'm a freelance web designer, who focuses primarily on small businesses. I either design new sites from scratch or redesign an older existing website, where the content is outdated and needs significant revamping. In either case, content development becomes an essential issue in the design process. Clients tend to take a long time in getting the content together, which delays the project. I like the advice in this tutorial of creating a firm understanding at the start of the project of how content will be developed and a timetable.

[@nooraniali]

Amazing session. I loved it. The fact that you two have opposing views is a blessing and very informative to me. These are valid arguments that always come to mind and most of the times there is no one correct answer for all. I wouldn't want to watch two polished dummy announcers just smiling and confirming each other the whole time! This is the real design process IMHO.

[@tiltify2393]

I think the challenge regarding content is that we have 2 types of customers: the first-time customers and the repeat customers... And we have two conflicting things we have to be mindful about.... 1. We need a simple - easy to understand design for first-time customers. 2. We need all the content needed for the repeat or obsessed customers (some customers really like to just go and check out the website from top to bottom including me.) So the challenge regarding content is that we need to work these two things together into perfect harmony. And the key here is - navigation. So my take on this would be to: 1. Design the home page for the TYPE 1 customer (first-time customer). Because they're more likely to scroll and discover. We also need to have the basic, most IMPORTANT CTAs on the home page for the oblivious newbie customer to make the most important decision (book a call) We can also have links like view our lodges, menus or whatever (I haven't done the audit myself so I'm not sure) throughout the homepage. After that, they'd be converted to the TYPE 2 customer. 2. Make a "complex but simple" navigation for the TYPE 2 customer. Again. "Complex but simple." I think the key is to work with your client and the stakeholders on this one. That sticky note thing would be helpful. This is where the main challenge starts. Content and sitemap. I'm not that skilled with this kind of thing. But here are my two cents. Submenus are good, but sometimes, they can be a bit too much. My approach would be to go for a menu without a submenu. When the TYPE 2 customer goes onto a page. The submenu would be on that page. We could also have the links in the footer. Another great way to counter this issue would be the "SEARCH BAR." Some people just love to type in there and find things. But those people are a minority. Anyways, this way we can have a navigation that's simple, but still provides the TYPE 2 customer with all the information they need. Wow, this has to be the longest comment I've ever made. Thanks for reading :)

[@Jnept5]

Chris and Jose, great episode indeed! Very much appreciated. You are correct where transitioning content is always the biggest issue. I feel content strategy should be included in the proposal or scope since it must fit with the redesign from a UX standpoint. The major frustration I have experienced is simply waiting weeks/months for content from the client. I remember working on a site which was suppose to take 6 weeks extending to 8 months simply because we had to wait for content. Sadly we were paid after 8 months, which was unfair. Lesson learned, once our design and development process is finished, we send the invoice. Whenever we get the content, we upload.

[@carlvanderpal5321]

Ole's original site looks exactly the same as one of the lodges I did in Australia. I did the same as you guys mentioned that the menu was the sales process. And once we changed from scattered menu to a sales process, we tripled their leads in less than a month. Their process was if they filled out a form, they would send a DVD, and then follow up 6 weeks later. All I did was put a form on the page, once they had seen the packages, and asked them "how soon are you looking at coming" and I'd put the closest date first, and the longest date last. Then, the same with "how many friends are you wanting to bring", starting with 12, and working the way backwards from there. By doing this they had conversion more often, and in a few days, rather than every 6 weeks. And they had invested something like $100k for the DVD to be done and get a ton of copies. All which proved a complete flop. So, we reduced their time to market and saved them spending another $100k on wasted materials.

[@Joe-qu6wi]

Hey guys great show again. Yeah I have deal with the content when "re-designing a site" Most small client expect us to deal with the content ourselves as part of the project, unless if it was the Wife who wrote it and she is very proud of that, sometimes they want to keep it, (thats a bigger challenge). What i have done, I add the content writing on my price, and hire a copywriter.

[@daniell3321]

Wow! To be quite honest out of all of the videos I have watched after falling into a ux rabbit hole a couple of weeks ago, this is by far the best quality content I have seen thus far! I have watched other videos from this channel in the past for logo design and for building brands however as a new researcher on this career path I have found other videos and small courses to be a bit more on the monotone side. I followed a link on Springboard's free learning path and one of the steps on the curriculum is to watch this video. Thank you Jose and Chris for taking the time to share your knowledge with us beginners. Side Note: If anyone has taken an online course can you please shed some light on a paid online course.

[@naumaanhamid]

I re-watch this at least every month since it was first published. To this day.

[@gobelenrico]

i watch this again in 2022. i miss the vibe. always love and respect these guys.

[@damiondigi]

I know this video is dated from a few years back, but it's still relatable today and for more years to come. I would agree with client clarification regarding their website's content. If it's a redesign of a website that was originally created years back, especially 7 years prior, then I would suggest refreshing its content design for something more modern. A lot of websites around that time were like reading full chapters for each webpage. Considering these days where no one has time to read and only hunts for certain action words, the client must know this and a good strategy should be in place to entice their visitors. Plus content helps take away most of the brainwork of the design process. Other than that, this video is very informative with both of your points of view. Thanks guys!

[@blackbird163]

Great! Thank you! I worked at a startup and we either wrote the copy ourselves (not great) or outsourced it, if the client wasn't willing to do it themselves

[@BriggsJenBriggs]

Thanks!

[@lansingdoesbusiness9356]

Chris is correct that sites tend to have too much filler and choice getting away from the key reason they are at the site. Simple sites convert. Also keep in mind that the amount of visitors are viewing with a mobile device, and that is just going to grow. Design content with mobile as a key component. Good show guys Thanks!!

[@thefutur]

Thanks for backing me up on this.

[@JawsoneJason]

Cool overview. An aside: there seems to be some tension at times between y'all when conversing. I notice you interrupt each other quite often. It makes it hard to follow your thoughts to completion.

[@nooraniali]

(repeat from my comment) These are valid arguments that always come to mind and most of the times there is no one correct answer for all. I wouldn't want to watch two polished dummy announcers just smiling and confirming each other the whole time! This is the real design process IMHO.

[@JawsoneJason]

that's a false dichotomy. I also think it's healthy to disagree and push back. The problem is that they are not actively listening, but waiting for a moment to interrupt or rebut. This undermines both of their arguments to the audience, because we aren't able to follow them to completion without being halted by the other. Good design also encompasses the soft skills of active listening and respect, especially when doing it in front of an audience.

[@nooraniali]

​@@JawsoneJason Thanks. I like what you raised about completing one's points and good design but also find it a bit too idealistic in a real-world discussion. They cannot agree 100 percent especially given the shortage of their self-allocated time limit (which is also an unfortunate choice). Of course, they should have done their homework better as instructors and coordinated more, but at the end of the day, I wasn't really distracted seeing them think out loud.

[@JawsoneJason]

I never asserted they should always agree. In fact, I supported the opposite.

[@Codesixir]

@@nooraniali I will copy this comment and won't give you credit , just because I am iranian

[@mad3m6n]

You guys are awesome. I can tell how super talented you guys are by simply how you explain and express your own ideas. I am working on putting together my startup and you guys are helping a whole lot. Big ups!

[@mad3m6n]

+Jose Caballer Italy, but I am relocating to Mexico City in two weeks.

[@Fahad-dh7wg]

i truly hate planning, but i realize its critical to making a good quality product. skool networks videos is teaching me how to plan, thanks for these videos!

[@thecozymakercompany9676]

i think the debate answers the difference b/n a UI vs UX designer- it makes sense for a UX to care or be empathetic to content detail updated vs only a UI major concern for the visual aesthetic. Just this debate alone really determines which route i’d want to take. Fantastic class btw- thank you!

[@hfortenberry]

My favorite part of this one was the content discussion. I have only small clients so I require them to provide the content (not future blog posts obviously but all the static web copy, images, links, etc.) before I will even start designing the site. I work with them to do user profiles in the very beginning so they have those users in mind as they are putting together the copy. They must provide it in digital format and once I see it all, only THEN can I do the design. I have in the past also written all of the copy for the client and I charge a lot for copywriting (and even for extensive proofreading) but I don't like doing that if I can help it. I totally agree with Jose that you have to update content. I always make sure the client knows I will rewrite it as needed to align the copy for SEO and information architecture. I would LOVE to see Jose do a show JUST on content. That would be awesome!

[@thefutur]

We can ask Jose. Fingers crossed for that topic.

[@supersimple1686]

how much do you charge?

[@burcubagan7464]

i'm preparing a thesis research about renewing a web page by ux methods. i was totally lost in articles and books. then i found your videos and they helped me a lot to get on the right track. also, still have tons of questions but i feel much more confident now. thanx ;)

[@kaizey]

Did you finish your thesis yet? Where can we read it? :D

[@gabriel.valandro]

Hey guys! Ux Designer from Brazil here. This video is the second one I've watched from your channel and I can tell you, I'm totally addicted to it!!! =O

[@thefutur]

Olá Gabriel. Welcome to the channel.

[@keithburdan74]

your channel is over the top

[@TrvisXXIII]

Mann the commentary at the ten minute Mark is spot on! I can see Chris getting frustrated because I would too after creating such a beautiful design for Ole's landing page

[@ChrisDo]

You caught that huh? What do you want someone to remember? Sandals resort? I give up. I understand they have lots of functions and different users but I believe there's a better user experience and higher conversion if you declutter.

[@ChrisDo]

+Jose Caballer I like the idea of having separate sites. Mega menu sites when not done well are extremely frustrating. So I guess it's less about density but rather about usability. Some airline sites work for me while AT&T site drives me mad. To this day I can't figure out how to activate certain services because it's so confusing. Now imagine if I were older or less tech savvy. Let's see how the Oles site turns out. This is the beauty of designing in real time. I suspect you are right Jose.

[@TrvisXXIII]

I've seen this situation before and its guys like Jose with his dose of reality that make me say ux design isn't for me, he's right because that is the industry standard and function overrides creativity in cases like this. The design for Chris's landing page would suit a personal website or blog as beautiful as it is, but not for business. It hurts me to even say that because the design is gorgeous.

[@ChrisDo]

Travis, stick around for the redesign of the entire site. We have been commissioned to do this. I have faith that we can solve the booking (biz goals) and exploring function while creating a great design and customer experience.

[@janslovi]

The beginning of the video is priceless.

[@andrewperez7844]

Learned a lot from this series. Would love to see another UX design process with you guys in 2020!

[@Shesaidit_ooo]

I'm just getting into UX design and the content question at the end has been one of the bigger questions at the back of my mind for a while! I love that this was brought up. I would go into an assignment assuming that the majority of the content would be kept unless it was no longer relevant and I would think that any major content overhauls that I would think are necessary would have to be discussed ahead of time with the owner- and likely it would be received hesitantly from the owner, especially if one of them or their team created that content.

[@souleater0815]

David Cross is a web designer too! That guy never quits!

[@toprankmedia4956]

Website design has drastically changed over the last 5 years

[@Natalie-sd3hn]

In most cases, I like to rearrange and rework existing content into the design before suggesting a copywriter to rewrite content. Sometimes what you might find while reading a long paragraph of content, for example, is that you can simplify it into just couple of main bulleted sentences - even words- and use those to your advantage to create large, graphic points out of them that are clear and easy to understand. Once the visual elements are in place, I may turn to the copywriter to refine what's already there. However, every scenario is different. Thanks for the awesome videos!

[@thefutur]

Thanks Natalie. Our approach to sort out what the users want/need. prioritize the list. and then see what content can be transferred over and what new content needs to be written.

[@Natalie-sd3hn]

Agreed!

[@lucaspanichella6747]

Jose says design without content is wierd, in fact designing without having clear notions of the content it's decoration. Great videos btw guys, very engaging! Thanks!

[@thefutur]

You got it Lucas.

[@Yonneax]

I love the way you two bounce off each other and keep each other on track. You work well together and make it fun as well. You had me laughing with the dry humor moments, lol. I learned a lot of good key points today. Thanks!

[@santimen2000]

I'm not normally a commenter on youtube, but damn good job with this video, i love the brainstorm structure of it. Congrats

[@thefutur]

Thanks Santiago! Appreciate it.

[@rsarodrigosales]

Hey guys, I'm from Brazil, and i'm getting involved with your shows, you're awesome. Thank You very much!

[@thefutur]

+Rodrigo Sales Obrigado!

[@StephenLee529]

Great start guys...the question I have is how is the redesign aligned with the goals of the company ? What pain points did they have that the current site wasn't meeting ? Or what new initiatives are they trying to achieve ? It helps me understand what prompted you to recommend or change the way the updated site will be designed to help achieve he customer's objectives.

[@thefutur]

+Stephen Lee You'll have the opportunity to watch us redesign the site in near real time as we do it.

[@StephenLee529]

+The Skool Network Awesome...! I look forward to it...

[@developerjames4859]

"He's a repeat customer" ... imo his main priority isn't prices. He already knows what he's willing to pay and if he's been using the resort since his kids were young he's well aware of prices. What's important to him is being able to book as quickly, and easily, as possible. He wants to know if the cabin he booked previously is available again.

[@frankthedsigner558]

Fantastic video! I know this videos was posted quite a while back, but man how I wish I watched this last year when I was faced with a corporate website redesign. Content was a nightmare, and honestly it is still going on because it was not in the scope of the redesign. I've gathered SO much from this video and starting a new web project later this month. Definitely helped me in thinking how to approach speaking with my client :-D

[@foxracer826]

Can you please post links to the videos for "Brand Attributes," "User Profiles," and "Goals?" I don't know which specific videos talk about these subjects as they related to this website redesign process.

[@elis2781]

I'm so glad I stumbled upon this channel. Such unique perspectives on tackling design. Definitely thought provoking shows.

[@elis2781]

+Jose Caballer As a recent graduate and newly employed designer, just about anything you guys talk about would resonate with me lol. Just watching the way you all handle this client and your process makes me look further into refining my own. As far as insight, referring back to you Identity Design: Branding video, Chris essentially breaks down the clients brief to two words and it gives a direction that leads to not only a visually pleasing mark, but it fulfills the clients needs (two words) as well. In this video just by seeing what customers do you break down their needs and it gives you a starting point. By breaking down whats needed even further, you give yourself a GPS to what the client needs, which streamlines the design process.

[@thefutur]

+Eli S you hit the nail on the head. Look at the world through the eyes of the customer and you will learn all sorts of things. This requires a) active listening and b) empathy. By the way this is central to User Centric Design.

[@toddpowell6555]

Subbed! I'm a long-time developer who wants to learn UX/UI so I can possibly go into freelance one day. I learned a LOT from this video, and it gives me hope that I can become competent in design.

[@germainrodriguez5230]

Wow this is great! Can't believe I barely discovered this

[@JoeOracoy]

Wow. talking about quality contents/topic here. I been building sites for quite a long while but, I seriously have learned something new here. Thank you guys! Keep it up! *auto-subbed*

[@thefutur]

glad to hear Joseph.

[@StephenLee529]

Oh....by the way fellas, the new set and the changes are really giving the entire show a good feel. I like the changes..

[@thefutur]

+Stephen Lee We're just getting started. Lighting is getting better and we'll continue to work on the set to make it the "Art Garage" that we envisioned.

[@meleecraft]

+The Skool Network *in Jose's voice* Boom Boom Boom

[@ChrisDo]

@stephen you get the prize for breng the most consistent person who comments on our videos. Thanks man.

[@StephenLee529]

+Chris Do hey you guys do a great job. My goal in 2016 is to be at your workshop if you have one so we can meet face to face...you guys are helping me work smarter not harder. Thanks for the compliment.

[@ChrisDo]

+Stephen Lee Glad to hear that we are helping and making a difference in your life. What can we do to help you achieve your goals so that we can see you at the next workshop?

[@RyanMinard]

Great show, really appreciating the changes and enhancements to the production. Content should be included in redesigns imo. This is a challenge I'm facing with my current company. Prior to me coming on they had a canned website package that was oversold and super generic for the industry. They haven't ever put the thought into creating original material. So a few months ago with the Google Mobile Armageddon I just dumped all existing content into a new design to meet the mobile friendly changes with the goal to revisit with a bigger redesign down the road after I can convince them to better define the brand. This was all sparked by this channel. I'm super thankful for what you guys do and the information you share, I just haven't been able to be in the position to really dive deep into it and purchase a core and agency in a box kit yet.

[@ChrisDo]

ryan minard The webinars are free so jump on those.

[@RyanMinard]

+Chris Do the webinars have been great as well. I get in as many as I can. have learned a lot of stuff in a short period of time with you. wish I had some of these resources back in college.

[@ChrisDo]

Me too. You have them now and that is all that matters.

[@McCrayBiz]

I make it clear that I absolutely do not write or edit content. I advise potential clients that they will need to start working on writing/gathering content before building a site. In doing that, I've learned that it's best for me to work w/ those who have an online presence (as opposed to none) and just want to revamp.

[@devvvvvvvvvvvv]

+McCrayBiz 'Not my job' makes less than 'I'll make it happen'.

[@srhyaekuau]

I'll make it happen also is selling your soul to the devil if done too much, gotta be selective.

[@hfortenberry]

I do this as well (require content provided up front by client). I tell them I am happy to be their copywriter but it will not be cheap.

[@CoffeeCoils]

When freelancing, "not my job" absolutely does pay less than "I'll make it happen". In my experience, the people that I have to have this conversation with do not understand the value of these services (or don't care) and want me to do the work for free. They want to come to the table with nothing, and expect someone to spend hours doing free work before getting to the web dev part. So in that case, yes I will not do it if I'm not getting paid.

[@sulaimannoh6237]

As for the content question, I've worked with a company that has a copywriter in the PR department in the past. The problem with the most company that totally new in the digital era is the content is often being craft to be like a hard sell advertisement. It's more to flyers approach than website approach. The problem with freelance web designer like me is, I work individually. It becomes hard to craft a good web design with the content that sometimes tells too much or sometimes it is like an old advertising approach that selling too hard.

[@thefutur]

Sulaiman Noh I understand. It can be tough to do it all. It helps to have a facilitated discovery to help clients focus on the goals. By earning their trust you will have more flexibility in crafting a better web experience including the messaging and flow of copy.

[@AvantGrade]

My experience with the content is not so long ago, two days ago I was required to fill the position of social media designer so I had to make catchy titles on post photos. the problem is the social media person (who write the posts) didn't make titles for me. And the reason was weird, she thought it was my job. I was remaking their identity as a student organization. So I asked her to do it politely -as social media people have quite the attitude- and I did -as the designers' recruitments are late this summer. to summarize Make your job deliverables very clear at the beginning.

[@elziehamiltonjr.6834]

I am an aspiring Web/UX Designer and this cleared up so much for me. Thank you! I'm going for an Associates Degree but are there recommendations for what to do and where to go for "pre-graduate" experience?

[@kmmk292929]

do you guys have a video on how to speak with clients? What to talk about, what you need to prepare to show or speak about when meeting with them?

[@thefutur]

yep. I think we have covered this on so many different videos.

[@kmmk292929]

Ok, cool

[@waleedcreates4294]

Langra site has been updated...would love a review of the new version

[@shawnstarr1]

how does the sub menu design pattern, translate to accessibility such as screen readers? A big focus is being pushed for AA (minimum) accessibility rating by 2020.

[@thefutur]

Shawn Starr good question. Jose?

[@imjustsaying828]

Jose, you're leaving us hanging

[@terencetsy]

The new Ole's site is awesome. However, it loads very slowly. Not sure why but love the UX.

[@thefutur]

it felt pretty quick on our end given the full screen images.

[@habibiSD]

Well done, what's the name of the jazz song at the end?

[@wathah323]

Clients mostly ignore content update to a new site because it costs money to get a good copywriter. It is important to discuss cost and get a realistic commitment/budget rather than leaving it to the end.

[@thefutur]

yes. there's an episode on content strategy where we touch on this.

[@kevintoun2613]

The Futur. You guys rock! Love your videos. I always address content design upfront before I put together my proposal. It can be the most critical part of the process depending on the purpose and goal of the website design.

[@brightgardenentrepreneuria910]

Really interesting, great vid, oldie but goodie, pushing 3 years. "What do you want your site to do?" "What do you want the visitor to do?" "Who are you design style, content, and flow for." What has changed since 2015, what would you differently now? That one off-cam question was a good one. There are two visitor sets:prospects vs repeat customers. The way you went through these Users, I believe you are using the repeat customers you used as prototypical customers-to-be. A challenge I have recognized is how to a) meet a prospect where they are, or b) try to be visionary, over the horizon. In what frame of mind is that demographic representative coming to the site. For instance, with a fishing log, maybe they are impulsive, had it with their job, and just book a vaca on the internet at midnight. The other prospect is comparing details, value shopping. One is luxury "don't think about the money," the other is all about the money, and matching it to the promised value.

[@bothbou819]

I have a question, I talk to a lot of designers who design UX and out source the development part of the process to another company. My question is what's the handing over process like? How do you hand over the website to the client to update and maintain?

[@tekiero]

So for user profiles should I wantasize everything or I need to make some research, like a survey or something?

[@Mike-zp8ev]

Many clients see content as the main driver for SEO, that is why they often refuse to remove anything when doing re-design of their website. It makes the job really hard. Do you think it is possible to bring in SEO expert and do a session on SEO-friendly design? I think it is very important for real life projects and clients who get their sales from organic search results.

[@thefutur]

+Mike M We can invite an SEO expert to get their take on this.

[@Tytus01UNIT]

yeah for me as an designer it is one of the problems. You can come up with great UX ideas but then SEO guys has problems with it. I have to say that best UX design should even be about SEO, because we are designing sites based on users who are ALREADY on the web. I have to say that this makes it a little complicate. I never think about SEO on design process, If I would, I think I would never design nothing close to landing page. (a lot of SEO specialist wanted to force me to put everything on tabs with a lot of links - of course SEO world is chasing a lot but there was a time when google didn't like to index it well).

[@bridgetroddy]

I would say the UX has a huge effect on SEO. If your pages have a high bounce rate because they're impossible to use, that is going to take a big chunk out of your ranking in search engines. I think that the integration of content and design is a huge factor and something that isn't being integrated in most sites as seamlessly as I think it could be.

[@yehudasimon2390]

​Thanks for the video @@thefutur! can you share the link to where you bring in an SEO expert?

[@JoeGator23]

Basic question: Do / can I host a landing page on the same site or should I use a separate domain (seo ranking affects, etc.). Thanks, great video.

[@christianpaul5224]

ok ok I'm now overwhelmed where to get started in this web design career?

[@stuwilkie907]

Hey guys, great content as always. Quick question though, I'm a little confused on what sections were covered in the video. Nearer the end you say that you covered '1. Brand Attributes', '2. User Profiles' and '3. Goals', but did you? Also, what's the difference between '2. User Profiles', '5. Review User Needs' and '6. Create User Stories' for instance? I'm trying to practice this workflow but I'm confused over which step to do and when etc. Cheers fellas!

[@anthonymorlett146]

Hey Jose and Chris love your banter makes for a good show! I think Chris brings up a amazing point... most clients care about the content and nothing else. I had this problem a few times- As a designer I always say less is more ! look at high end retail stores compare to something like Wall mart... it drives me mad when a company wants a user to get lost in a page...and expects a high conversion rate

[@thefutur]

+Anthony Morlett We have a strategy on how to defeat this. Future episode we will share and see if it works for you.

[@hervensay]

Hey, Guys. I want to know who built the customer profil. Does the line built it for us or do we have to make one up ?

[@thefutur]

You build it

[@hervensay]

Thanks, i’m not sure how to do that. Do you gave any tips on how to come up with the right customer profile. Do we base our CP from the information provided by the client ? Sorry for all the questions :)

[@TheHollygirls]

From what source do you create the personas? from the info you get from your client? or do you actually do interviews with people who are the clients of your client and based on that you build the user personas?

[@thefutur]

We do it from the clients. But others do interviews.

[@avidtubewatcher]

The questions are better than the presentation :)

[@vasimshaikh8950]

do you have any video on basic principle of design and how to develop concept when design brochure or website or magazine fb post

[@thefutur]

we have 2 courses on design fundamentals. typography and logo design. concepting is next. but we have to finish up logo design first. you can find it: academy.thefutur.com

[@vasimshaikh8950]

ok its great you reply so quickly. Thanks for replying

[@beeartbranding9665]

In the culture segment, whats the difference between Hospitable and Welcoming? Isnt it the same definition in general?

[@ekaekaterina8047]

I have a question. You talked about 3 person profiles. Where from did you get this information? From a customer or from interviews with really people? What was the base for creating these profiles. Or what are the components from which you made the profiles. Thank you very much.

[@johanmendez6320]

Web content part was a eye opener, it is normal to skip that part when talking with the customer about the project. Also I think there is a gap between, this video and the introduction one, and it is when you are showing the "user profile cards" that is a complete process call Proto-Personas, it would be awesome if you talk about that ;) thanks

[@thefutur]

+johan mendez Hi Johan. You are correct about building user personas. We build them for our clients but haven't produced an episode (for public consumption) on how to do this since it's part of CORE.

[@gsalas7]

Pretty neat intro guys!!! loved it

[@CLIFFORD347]

Thank you...u guys make it look so easy.keeps me going

[@thefutur]

the task of the teacher is to make the difficult seem simple.

[@McPixelWizard]

In regards to content: I depend on my level of relationship with them and I just tell them I think their site needs to be rewritten; they usually trust my opinion. Yes, content is always an issue, especially for a new site! I have a few writer freelancers I introduce them to if they need that. I find that even for smaller corporations, I get the "we can handle it ourselves" line a lot. I find they take the branding and visual design much more seriously than the content. I realize there is writing for SEO, writing for conversion, etc. I think these are some of the most compelling reasons to sell them on rewriting the content, and to Chris' point, to simplify everything and not overwhelm a potential customer.

[@thefutur]

That's some next level understanding.

[@mikiemagnusson7805]

I prefer to not handle the copywriting, but 90% of the time my clients view the website design and copywriting as 1 thing, clients seem to get glossed over when I break it apart. Or the project drags on if I have to wait for them to provide it. So now what I do is in my consultation I record the content audit and the design direction. Then I can hand the recording off to a copywriter, that way they have as much context as I have to create with.

[@thefutur]

Ultimately, we need to be responsible for the writing. Otherwise, the flow of the experience doesn't line up.

[@mikiemagnusson7805]

True

[@mdjahin99]

How did you get the information for the user profiles? How do we gather such info?

[@thefutur]

we teach you inside the CORE class.

[@mdjahin99]

CORE class ? I didn’t understand.

[@Tytus01UNIT]

One of my questions is: We all know that now is the time that "mobile first". Even I like the idea of more complicated submenu from 8:30 (of course only on very complex websites), I immediately had in my mind, how would I even do that on mobile. Those submenus there looked like full webs on mobile website. I'm doing web design for a long time, but It is really hard for me to start a design from mobile perspective and I see that on your grate workshops too. Can you plz try to lean a little to the mobile's perspective of the design?

[@hikingtravelmemories]

When you say.. design is it hi-fi prototype or the actual. Website development?

[@sshah5041]

Great video. How would you convince your client to "refine website content"?. What are some effective ways that have worked for you ?.

[@50secs]

Thank you for sharing a value insight in to process. I presume that at this stage it is very beneficial to have a look at the web analytic and user footprints of the previous design? Yes? No? May be?

[@50secs]

+Jose Caballer Thank you for the input.:)

[@outlawgeek420]

If the content is not focused and directed on the goals of what the users want to do on the website in the first place, then it will need a revision if not a complete rewrite because at the end of the day, design should be functional and tell a story and how can you do that if the words are all over the place?

[@AaronPierson]

Great episode!

[@ryansantoro]

Hey Jose and Chris, quick question. My dad owns an auto repair shop. His website looks dated -- similar to Ole's older design. I love the landing page you designed for them. Is there a specific software you used to create it? You mentioned other's websites were pretty clearly a wordpress design. How did you create the new landing page displayed in this video? Love your work. Thanks for uploading such creative and informative videos. Your talent shows.

[@thefutur]

We use Illustrator and photoshop. Then it's coded by hand by our developers.

[@David-kf5ly]

based on what information do you create these customer profiles? I do not know if I understand correctly, but based on these profiles, a website design is created?

[@thefutur]

It’s the beginning

[@chadtarheel]

Fantastic working discussion!

[@adsasdasist]

hI guys, can anyone tell me the time stamp where Jose indicates what are the resources/pages he uses

[@theamithsingh]

you guys are super cool, love your show. BIG FAN!

[@gumis14a]

How can I get information about users which I can use to create user profiles?

[@thefutur]

You facilitate the user personas with the client. They tell you about their clients. Life experience helps you to fill in the gaps.

[@Karekarandassociates]

u can always edit.. if u r concern about timings ... :)

[@DeepfriedBaby]

5:30 - I don't think that's the site's taxonomy, but perhaps a sitemap or the results of a content audit or content strategy. It's tricky, i don't know an exact name for this.

[@thefutur]

got it.

[@DeepfriedBaby]

Awesome video by the way. Very helpful! :)

[@aine4400]

Brilliant! Thanks for doing these videos - nice to see real world stuff

[@thefutur]

Thank you.

[@anastasiialukina8134]

I learn so much from your channel :) Thank you guys!

[@thefutur]

Thank you.

[@lukeroberts1052]

Lovin the videos so happy I subscribed

[@thefutur]

we are too!