Website Development

I have some experience in web site development, and from that experience have some idea of an approach to development that usually works quite well.

e.g. "identify potential users, elicit data/ functional requirements, develop prototype, etc..."

However, I am interested in how other people (organisations/ professionals) do it. Are there any widely adopted standard approaches?

As I am a student, my ideas and ways of doing things have to conform to a school schedule for the most part, however my way seems to work quite well.

1) After being contacted by a user, I talk with them about what they want the site to be, and how far they want to go with size and development. I also mention the fact of ballparked prices here, but I make sure they know this is not the final amount.

2) I then come back and discuss any important, absolutes of the site. This is also when a contract is signed.

3) I develop a prototype design, and if needed, codebase.

4) I show the customer throughout development what the site is like and ask for opinions.

5) I display the final site and make any final changes.

6) If I am handling the management of content, I begin entering data, if they are, I teach them how to.

7) I give them a bill and receive payment.

It's not necessarily the best, or the most efficient, but it works.

-RCM