I've searched the topic “ Web Development Methodology ” in the internet. There are a lot of articles and sites talking about this issue. After skinning some of the sites and I found one interesting point. Although most web design companies claim that their development methodologies are tailor made to meet end user's needs, most of the methodologies are more or less similar: 1) Project Definition (gather information, planning & analysis); 2) Design of the site; 3) Coding and Implementation; 4) Promotion and 5) Evaluation / Innovation. These are what we are learning these two weeks.
I agree that the methodology we learnt has included many useful information and resources for web design / redesign. From my past experience, some problems I faced in one of my previous redesign projects can be solved or reduced if I have adopted this methodology from the beginning. The main problems I faced including “ Scheduling of the tasks ” and “ Addressing Technical Standards ”. If I have a good planning at the beginning, I can save more time and efforts during this project.
However, does it mean we should follow the methodology strictly? From my point of view, it is a good guideline; however, it doesn't mean that it is the only golden rule. The methodology can describe most steps generally; however, it cannot describe all cases specifically. I think it's good for novice designer, like me, to follow at the beginning. Experienced designer will tailor make their own methodologies to fit their company culture and style as those design house mentioned at the beginning.
