Blog Layout

BACK
Our Steps to Build a Website
Taylor Tunnison • February 10, 2022

We know just how much digital marketing matters in the 21st century. That’s why we design and publish custom websites for our clients. Our team works to meet their unique needs while making user experience a top priority. We build our websites from the ground up with mobile device and search engine optimization (SEO) in mind. Here’s an in-depth look at our steps to build a website.

Our Web Design Process

We follow a consistent build process for all our clients’ websites. That way, our team can deliver top-notch quality regardless of budget, timeline, or industry. We work together with companies to understand their unique goals. Then, we explore how we can bring their vision to life. With all of this in mind, we begin with an initial kick-off call.

Kick-Off Call

Every web design project begins with an introduction from our V.P. of Operations and Head of Web Development. This helps us to get to know the client, their business, and their specific goals. We go over our process, what we need, as well as the client’s industry and ideal target market. Then, we ask if they currently have a website and domain name. If so, we want to know what’s working and what needs improvement. Our team then asks for examples of other websites that the client likes in order to set a benchmark. This is often easier than describing design elements in words. Clients may source examples from any industry, and we also provide samples on our website. We send a detailed recap email after this and every meeting with notes and clearly defined action items.

1st Draft and Review

During our first meeting, the team gathers vital information needed to begin the first draft of the website. This rough draft is simply a basic outline of what’s to come. It includes placeholder text and images with a focus on the overall feel and flow. Our team walks through suggested formatting options before proceeding. We establish a baseline aesthetic, then ask for genuine feedback from the client. “Blunt is best,” as we like to say. If something isn’t appealing, we want to hear it. True collaboration requires candor, and at the end of the day, it’s the client’s website. Again, we send a recap email that includes our plans and what we need in order to move forward.

2nd Draft and Review

Based on feedback from the first draft meeting, we implement agreed-upon changes. We decide on the overall layout and format at this point. Our developer builds out webpage frameworks before we begin incorporating copy and images. He also refines colors and logo placements. Then, we home in on the client’s calls to action (CTAs). Whether they prefer to encourage meetings, calls, emails, or purchases, we establish their website’s ultimate goal. From lead generation to conversion, we make all CTAs obvious and accessible. Our clients trust us to empower their visitors with ample opportunities to take the ideal action.

Final Draft

The final draft review meeting is where everything comes together. At this point, we finalize all colors, logos, photos, and webpage formatting. We then polish text copy based on questions, feedback, and necessary details. Several sets of eyes review all copy for grammar, spelling, and proper punctuation. Then, we incorporate any third-party integrations such as testimonials, social media feeds, and scheduling software. If the website includes ecommerce functionality, we work with the client to complete product listings and descriptions. We ensure all major design work checks out with the client before moving forward with optimization.

Mobile Optimization and Publish

Our initial build process focuses on desktop design and formatting. Once the client approves, we work on mobile and tablet optimization. This is crucial for many reasons. It includes paring down extra elements that bog down mobile load times. This critical backend work ensures search engines like Google are able to index the website’s content. Our efforts prioritize a user-friendly interface that’s easy to navigate and understand. We go through and double-check all links and formatting to guarantee that everything works as expected. The client then confirms that they are happy with all versions before we publish the finished website.

Training and Ongoing Maintenance

We offer optional training for clients who want to make small changes to their own website. This is important for those who don’t sign up for monthly maintenance. Our Head of Web Development schedules and records a one-on-one meeting with the client. Together they walk through key elements that may need changes in the future. Clients who opt for ongoing maintenance benefit from a discounted rate on monthly changes. That way, they can rest assured knowing we’re available to assist with regular updates.


The best websites are fast, enticing, and user-friendly. Our process ensures the ideal web design for any budget or industry. If you’re looking to build or refresh a website, we hope you’ll contact us for more details. We look forward to giving you the tools to succeed in the internet age.

Are You Interested In More?

SCHEDULE A MEETING

Share This Post With Your Friends

Latest Posts

By Rachel Hayden March 11, 2025
As we begin 2025, businesses must adapt to new trends and challenges of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) as it continues to become more relevant. Whether you're running a small startup or an established company, a robust SEO strategy is no longer optional—it’s essential.  Here’s why your business needs a strong SEO strategy in 2025: 1. Increased Competition in the Digital Space As more businesses invest in online marketing, the digital marketplace is becoming increasingly crowded. In 2025, there will be even more companies vying for attention across search engines, social media platforms, and beyond. SEO is the key to standing out. A well-executed SEO strategy helps ensure that your website ranks higher on search engine results pages (SERPs) , making it more likely that potential customers will find your business before they find your competitors. 2. Google’s Algorithm Updates Keep Changing Google's algorithms are constantly evolving to provide users with the most relevant, high-quality search results. In 2025, it’s expected that Google will continue to refine its ranking system with updates focusing on user intent, mobile-first indexing, and even more advanced AI-based algorithms. A strong SEO strategy helps businesses keep up with these changes and ensures that their website is optimized for each update, preventing a drop in rankings. 3. User Experience (UX) Will Be More Important Than Ever Google has increasingly emphasized the importance of a positive user experience as a ranking factor. In 2025, factors like site speed, mobile optimization, easy navigation, and relevant content will continue to play a crucial role in determining where your site ranks. A strong SEO strategy focuses not only on keyword optimization but also on creating a seamless and user-friendly experience for visitors, helping to keep users engaged and coming back for more. 4. Voice Search and AI Will Dominate With the rise of voice search through smart devices like Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant, optimizing for voice search will be more important than ever. As people ask questions in a more conversational tone, businesses must adapt their SEO strategies to include long-tail keywords and natural language. Additionally, AI advancements will make personalized search results the norm, making it essential to provide high-quality, relevant content tailored to your audience's needs. 5. SEO Provides Long-Term Results Unlike paid advertising, SEO offers long-term benefits that compound over time. While ads can deliver instant results, SEO can generate organic traffic that steadily increases as your website climbs the search rankings. In 2025, a strong SEO strategy will provide your business with sustained growth, ensuring that your content continues to be discoverable and valuable to your target audience. 6. Local SEO is Key for Small and Medium Businesses For small and medium-sized businesses , local SEO will remain one of the most effective ways to connect with customers in your area. In 2025, local search queries are expected to grow, as users seek businesses near them. Claiming and optimizing your Google Business Profile, ensuring your NAP (Name, Address, Phone number) information is consistent, and generating positive customer reviews will be essential components of your local SEO strategy. 7. Content Marketing and SEO Go Hand-in-Hand Content marketing and SEO are a dynamic duo that, when paired together, can create powerful results. As search engines continue to prioritize high-quality, relevant content, having an SEO strategy that aligns with your content marketing efforts will help you rank higher and connect with your target audience. In 2025, content creation will be more than just producing blog posts—it will involve creating videos, infographics, and podcasts that serve your audience’s needs while being optimized for search. 8. The Shift Towards Mobile-First In 2025, mobile-first indexing will be more important than ever. With the growing reliance on smartphones and tablets, Google primarily uses the mobile version of your site to determine rankings. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re likely missing out on valuable traffic. A strong SEO strategy ensures that your website is optimized for mobile, offering users a seamless browsing experience no matter what device they’re on. 9. Measurable ROI One of the biggest advantages of SEO is that its results are trackable and measurable. You can monitor the success of your SEO strategy by tracking key metrics like organic traffic, bounce rate, conversion rates, and keyword rankings. With the right tools and analytics in place, you can clearly see how your SEO efforts are impacting your bottom line, making it easier to adjust strategies as needed to maximize results. 10. SEO Builds Trust and Credibility Trust is a key factor in customer decision-making. Websites that rank well in search engines are often perceived as more credible and trustworthy. A strong SEO strategy not only focuses on ranking but also on providing value through helpful, informative, and well-crafted content. By demonstrating expertise and addressing customer needs, you can build trust with your audience, increasing the likelihood of conversions and brand loyalty. Stay Relevant With SEO As we enter 2025, SEO will continue to be one of the most valuable tools for businesses looking to succeed in a competitive digital landscape. A solid SEO strategy ensures that your business stays relevant, competitive, and visible to potential customers. Whether you’re looking to improve your website’s user experience, capitalize on local SEO, or build a content marketing plan, now is the time to invest in SEO for long-term growth and success. If you’re looking to get started or optimize your existing SEO strategy, True North Technologies is here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can help you grow your online presence and achieve measurable results!
By Rachel Hayden March 6, 2025
With billions of users online, brands are constantly fighting for attention. Consumers are bombarded with ads, emails, and social media content every day, making it harder than ever to break through the noise. So, how can businesses stand out and create lasting impressions? The answer lies in authentic connections—building real relationships with your audience instead of just selling to them. At True North Technologies, we believe that digital marketing is more than just clicks and conversions; it’s about creating meaningful interactions that foster trust, loyalty, and long-term success. Here’s why authentic connections matter in digital marketing. 1. Consumers Crave Realness Today’s consumers are savvier than ever. They can spot a generic ad or sales pitch from a mile away, and they’re not easily swayed by overly polished, impersonal messaging. Instead, they gravitate toward brands that feel genuine, relatable, and human. One of the best ways to showcase authenticity is through organic content —unpaid, value-driven posts that highlight your brand’s personality, mission, and customer experiences. By using organic messaging, behind-the-scenes content, and real customer experiences, businesses can create a sense of transparency and trust—two factors that are essential for building strong relationships. Whether it’s through social media, email marketing, or paid advertising, your messaging should feel personal, not robotic. 2. Trust Leads to Loyalty Trust is the foundation of any successful brand. When customers feel like they know and understand a brand, they’re more likely to engage, buy, and advocate for it. But trust isn’t built overnight—it requires consistent, honest communication. One way to establish credibility is by showcasing user-generated content (UGC) and real customer testimonials. When potential customers see others sharing positive experiences with your brand, they’re more likely to believe in your product or service. Additionally, responding to comments, reviews, and messages in a thoughtful and authentic way reinforces that you value your audience’s voice. 3. Authenticity Improves Engagement People engage with content that resonates with them emotionally. Authentic digital marketing doesn’t just tell people what they want to hear—it speaks to their values, interests, and pain points. This is why brands that embrace organic content see higher engagement rates across digital platforms. Unlike paid ads, organic content allows brands to connect with their audience in a more natural way. Sharing stories, educational content, and interactive posts creates a two-way conversation that keeps followers engaged. Brands that humanize their messaging by sharing behind-the-scenes content, team highlights, or even admitting mistakes (and showing how they’ve improved) foster deeper emotional connections. Simon Sinek's "Golden Circle" concept can be particularly helpful here. By focusing on why your brand exists before explaining what you do and how you do it, you’ll establish a deeper emotional connection with your audience. Consumers are more likely to engage with a brand that shares its purpose and values, rather than simply promoting a product or service. 4. Personalization Enhances the Customer Experience Personalized marketing is another way to create authentic connections with your audience. People don’t want to feel like just another number in your sales funnel; they want to feel like they matter. Using data-driven insights , brands can craft highly relevant content tailored to individual preferences and behaviors. Whether it’s through personalized email campaigns, dynamic website content, or targeted digital ads, brands that speak directly to their audience’s needs create stronger, more meaningful relationships. 5. Authentic Brands Stand the Test of Time Trends come and go, but authenticity never goes out of style. Brands that prioritize real, human connections don’t just gain customers—they build communities. By fostering long-term relationships instead of focusing solely on short-term gains, businesses can create sustainable growth and brand loyalty that lasts for years. At True North Technologies , we help brands craft authentic digital marketing strategies that go beyond surface-level tactics. From social media and content marketing to paid digital advertising, we focus on creating real connections that drive real results. Ready to Build Authentic Connections? If you’re looking to elevate your digital marketing strategy with authenticity at its core, we’re here to help. Let’s create a marketing approach that feels human, builds trust, and drives lasting success. Contact us today to get started!
By Rachel Hayden February 5, 2025
Owning a website is essential for businesses, personal brands, and entrepreneurs looking to grow their brand and establish an online presence. The first step to creating your website is securing a domain name. A domain is your website’s unique address on the internet, such as www.yourbusiness.com . If you're unsure where to start, this guide will walk you through the process of buying a domain name. Step 1: Choose the Right Domain Name Before purchasing a domain, it's important to decide on a name that aligns with your brand and is easy to remember. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect domain name: Keep it short and simple. Use keywords relevant to your business (or try using your business name if available.) Avoid numbers and hyphens. Choose a memorable and brandable name. Ensure it’s easy to spell and pronounce. Step 2: Check Domain Availability Once you have a name in mind, check if it’s available using a domain registrar. Websites like GoDaddy and Hover allow you to search for available domain names and provide alternative suggestions if your desired name is taken. Step 3: Choose a Domain Extension Domain extensions (also known as top-level domains or TLDs) include .com, .net, .org, and many more. The .com extension is the most popular and widely recognized, but depending on your industry, you might consider alternatives like: .org for nonprofits and organizations .net for technology-based businesses .shop for e-commerce stores .tech for technology-focused sites Step 4: Register Your Domain Once you’ve found an available domain name and chosen an extension, it’s time to register it. Here’s how: Select a trusted domain registrar such as GoDaddy or Hover. Add your domain to the cart and proceed to checkout. Choose the registration period (typically one year, with renewal options). Opt for domain privacy protection to keep your personal information secure. Complete the purchase. Step 5: Connect Your Domain to a Website After purchasing your domain, you need to connect it to a website. If you already have a hosting provider (like WordPress.com or SiteGround), follow their instructions to link your domain. If you haven’t chosen a hosting provider yet, consider purchasing one that offers domain registration and website hosting in one package. Step 6: Renew Your Domain Regularly Domain names require annual renewal to stay active. Set up auto-renewal or mark your calendar to ensure you don’t lose ownership of your domain. Offering Secure Website Solutions Since 2019 Buying a domain is the first step to building your online presence. By following these steps, you can secure a professional and brandable domain name that helps establish credibility and attract visitors. If you need assistance with website development , SEO, or digital marketing, True North Technologies is here to help! Need Help Getting Started? Contact True North Technologies today to learn more about our digital solutions!
Share by: