How We Work
In 2005, we reconsidered our working methods because we found that they were limiting us. We are a business with a diverse background, so we are now using a design process instead of engineering methods.
Background
Designers and engineers have different approaches to computer-based work. Many programmers and webmasters come from computer science degrees where the dominant teaching is engineering-style, using methods such as systems analysis, functional requirements specifications, synthesis and evaluation. (Read an Introduction to the engineering process from University of Twente in the Netherlands.)
Many web designers and interface designers are from art or technical design backgrounds, so use a process starting from a short design brief, through specification, concept designs, detailed designs, manufacturing, testing and shipping. (Read an Overview of the Design Process from University of Hertfordshire.)
The two processes are similar, yet different. We believe that we can and should apply the design process to our work because:
- computer developments which really delight people have come from design processes, whether informal or formal;
- good interface design is really important for computer-based work;
- our prototyping methods allow us to explore more concept designs than other developers;
- we have many good experiences of design processes and fewer good experiences of engineering processes;
- there is more consensus about what goes into a design processes;
- engineers often know about design processes, but the reverse seldom seems to happen;
- few of our clients are engineers.
How We Work: In Practice
In practice, this means that we take projects through the following stages:
- Design brief: we will use your initial enquiry as the basis of a design brief and develop specifications from it;
- Concepts: we will produce some ideas based on the design brief (in words, pictures or both) and send them to you, with estimated and maximum price tags. Based on your responses, we may revise the specification;
- Detail: we will turn a concept of your choice into a working example;
- Manufacture: if the detailed design is agreed, we will turn the working example into a fully-functioning product;
- Test: we will verify the product and send you the test report(s);
- Shipping: we will provide you with all materials, with source materials under a suitable free software licence. This doesn't mean that we will publish them without your permission, but it does mean that you have the choice whether or not to continue the design with us and aren't "locked in";
Interested in working with us? Use the question box on the front page to start a conversation.
