Web Redesign 2.0: Workflow that Works

by Kelly Goto

Anyone who has managed the process of developing or redesigning a Web site of significant size has likely learned the hard way the complexities, pitfalls, and cost risk of such an undertaking. While many Web development firms have fantastic technical expertise, what sets the topnotch organizations apart is the ability to accurately manage the planning and development process. Web Redesign: Workflow That Works directly addresses this crucial area with a specific, proven process.

This brief but important book lays out a specific five-step strategy--called the Core Process--that can always be applied to the development of Web sites and fine-tuned to almost any type of project. Each step--defining the project, developing site structure, visual design and testing, production and QA, and launch and beyond--contains three related but distinct tracks. The text begins with a brief overview of each of the steps, then delves deeper into each with detailed explanations as well as specific forms and project-management strategies. This book does not cover back-end, server-side programming. Instead, it focuses primarily on the visual, conventional components of a Web site.

Authors Kelly Goto and Emily Cotler compiled this book in an attractive, easy-to-read format. This process guide uses numerous full-color screen shots to illustrate site examples, as well as plenty of site diagrams and sample forms. The book even has a companion Web site with downloadable forms in PDF format to put the Core Process into immediate action. --Stephen W. Plain

Topics covered:

Step 1--Defining the Core Process: discovery, planning, and clarification; Step 2--Developing site structure: content-view, site-view, and page-view; Step 3--Visual design and testing: creating, confirming, and handing off; Step 4--Production and QA: prepping, building, and testing; Step 5--Launch and beyond: delivery, launch, and maintenance.

Genres: Design, Website Design, Web, Nonfiction, Programming, Technical, Management

Paperback

First published January 1, 2001

About the author

Kelly Goto is an American entrepreneur specializing in user experience design and contextual research. She was one of the first design researchers using design ethnography. She is the founder and principal at gotomedia and gotoresearch.

Reviews

[David Chiles · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read and studied this book before I built my site http://www.NetworkEtiquette.net. I used it so much that the cover came off. My Netiquette site is amateur, but is based on the professional theories in this book.

[Helen Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Web ReDesign 2.0: Workflow that Works" by Kelly Goto and Jesse James Garrett is a comprehensive guide designed to help web designers and project managers navigate the complex process of redesigning websites. The book is structured to provide a clear, step-by-step approach to managing the redesign workflow, making it a valuable resource for anyone involved in the redesign process.

The authors begin by emphasizing the importance of understanding fundamental principles such as user needs and business goals. They guide readers through the initial phases of research and strategic planning, offering practical techniques for gathering user insights and defining project goals. This foundational work sets the stage for the subsequent design and development phases.

In the design and development sections, Goto and Garrett offer practical advice on creating user-friendly and visually appealing interfaces. They cover crucial aspects such as wireframing, prototyping, and final design implementation, ensuring that readers have a solid grasp of how to translate their strategies into effective designs.

Testing and launching are also thoroughly covered in the book. The authors provide a detailed overview of testing methodologies and quality assurance practices, helping readers understand how to identify and address issues before going live. They also offer strategies for a smooth launch and post-launch evaluation, which are essential for the long-term success of any redesign project.

One of the standout features of web 2.0 is its inclusion of case studies and real-world examples. These provide valuable insights into how the principles discussed are applied in practice, making the content more relatable and actionable. The book’s practical approach, comprehensive coverage, and clear, engaging writing style make it a useful guide for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field.

However, some readers might find the depth of detail overwhelming if they are seeking a more high-level overview. Additionally, while the focus on workflow is thorough, the book may not cover every aspect of web design, such as the latest design trends or advanced technical topics.

Overall, "Web ReDesign 2.0: Workflow that Works" is a highly recommended read for anyone involved in web design or redesign projects. It offers a wealth of knowledge that can enhance skills and improve project outcomes, making it a valuable addition to any designer’s library.

[Mike Prusaitis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just loving this series. David's poor metaphors are a bit over the top.

New supporting cast was a bit blah but David + Firefight were awesome. Villians in this series are phenomenal.

Can't wait to jump into #3! CALAMITY!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this a long time ago, but I constantly go back to it for that project template. A good reference.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not a web design book, and those who rate it poorly on its lack of merits in this area didn't get as far as the title. It is a book on redesigning an entire site, and the focus is on process and resource management (aka workflow) and in these areas it is invaluable. It offers a (necessarily) brief overview of the entire life cycle of a project and I often find myself opening it for a skim when planning. I also consult other books specific to each topic if I need additional details, and it is a benefit that this book does not attempt to give an expert's perspective on each issue as this book would be impossibly long and quickly out of date.

This is a permanent addition to my shelf.

[John · Rating 2 out of 5]

When I started reading this it felt just like what I was looking for in one book (a resource for publishing grad students to start thinking about project management for websites), but after the first two chapters, the material started to feel a little thin. I still find value in the book's core process. I find it a simple and straightforward breakdown of project management. I'm not sure how practical it is for seasoned professionals, but as a learning tool for student's just starting to grapple with this industry, I think this is a decent resource.

[Leslie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a little disappointing. It's fine as far as it goes, but I felt a little let down by the level of the content. Don't get me wrong; it's a good book. It's probably best suited to someone with little experience, however, as much of the content comes under what I'd consider "common sense". Maybe that means I'm better (or at least more experienced) at what I do than I previously thought. A nice thought, but that doen't help me love this book. I like it, but I don't love it.

[Voodoochilli · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not the best web design book I have read by a long way. The tone of the book is rather patronising and the content is limited in scope. There is also an obvious bias towards mac users which, as we are told repeatedly is the case for the authors. I didn't learn anything new from this book but I guess it would suit someone just starting out, maybe a student.

[Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this (and the first edition) as it came out and it mapped so wonderfully to my work methods I either bought it for clients or encouraged them to get it, so they knew the direction and how we were going to be working.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always come back to this book. It wasn't at all what I expected, but it has been super useful for creating documentation for systematizing my own processes. While it does focus mostly on LARGE scale redesign projects, it's still a really useful resource.

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must-read reference for anyone managing a web-design project.

[Miles · Rating 4 out of 5]

I met Kelly a few years ago,and found her to be an entertaining speaker. This book is great for those who want workflow concepts for web design.

[Elsa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Execellent reference

[Kristin]

great overview, too much to digest in one reading

[Ron Mccranie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on Website Redesign and workflow processes. The examples and sample documents help push the ideas even further. Some great information to guide web professionals.

[Moises Mtz. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Un par de formatos valiosos disponibles en su sitio de manera gratuita, lectura muy 2004 con ejemplos muy 2004

[Samuel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I bought this book solely for chapter 3. Totally worth it for that alone.