Description:
Virginia Bisek Does your firm’s website need an overhaul? Do you have a good idea of the component software pieces involved in successfully managing and launching a redesign? In this 10 minute session we’ll cover the tools you’ll need to effectively manage the redesign of your website and your new content moving forward, after you launch. •Microsoft Word: You’ll need Word for copy development. If you have the 2003 or earlier version, it’s time to upgrade. •Microsoft Excel: You’ll need Excel to create an audit of your website content; Content you have currently, and content you’ll develop moving forward. •Project management software: There are many popular cloud-based PM software tools. I recommend Basecamp from 37signals. Simple, easy way to communicate with all team members during development, allows access and version control for all files, and stores everything in the cloud for 24/7 access. This tool is also a great way to communicate with outside vendors, too, such as your web developer or web designer – and it keeps a history of all discussions. You can’t live without it and it’s very affordable. You can cancel the subscription when your project ends. For most small firms and solo practitioners the monthly cost will probably run you $24. •Open Source CMS, Blog or WYSIWYG software: All three software types listed here are a type of content management system. A content management system allows you to effectively do that — manage your content. You will want a CMS incorporated into your design that allows you to make changes to your website when and where and how you want them. A CMS leaves you in control. •Photoshop Elements: This is Adobe’s smaller version of Photoshop. For $99 you can edit images and photos and optimize them for the Web. You will use this software often. It’s not necessary to get the entire Photoshop package, unless you have an in-house graphic designer.